** Rethink the strategy for protecting civilians: towards revitalization of the missions of Monusco in the Democratic Republic of Congo **
On March 11, during a visit to Beni, General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, commander of the Monusco Force, laid significant milestones in the re -evaluation of methods of protection of civilian populations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While the security context of the country is dominated by armed groups and sporadic conflicts, this displacement illustrates a manifest intention to revitalize the commitment of the international community in favor of Congolese civilians, faced with impressive humanitarian challenges.
### a worrying context
The DRC, and more particularly the North Kivu, has been the theater of interethnic violence and armed fighting for decades. According to the latest report from the Humanitarian Affairs Coordination Office (OCHA), more than 27 million Congolese need emergency humanitarian aid, and almost 5.5 million would be moved due to armed conflicts. The joint operations announced between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and Monusco therefore represent a crucial strategic axis to reverse this spiral of violence.
### Redeployment to Beni: a logistical and symbolic necessity
The choice of Beni as a new temporary HQ of Monusco not only underlines a logistical decision, but also a strong message: proximity to the field is essential to meet the needs of citizens. General of Mesquita Gomes stressed the importance of improved coordination with FARDC, believing that their synergy could considerably increase the effectiveness of civil protection operations. “I am here to set up a temporary force, because I do not have the opportunity to stay in Goma,” he said, highlighting a pragmatic approach and close to the realities on the ground.
## Coordination mechanisms: a strategic priority
The initiative to create a command and operations coordination center is of capital importance. This center, which should be established under the authority of the governor and supported by Monusco, could offer a formal framework for dialogue between the various actors, including local authorities and communities representatives. By promoting a collaborative approach, one could hope to generate a climate of trust, often essential to improve the safety and protection of civilians.
The role of the governor in this process cannot be underestimated. Indeed, his desire to facilitate the work of Monusco and to open communication channels with various partners is an advance towards more responsibility and transparency in operations. Such an approach could also serve as a model for other provinces affected by instability and offer a path to lasting solutions.
### A comparative analysis: lessons from the past
The current approach to Monusco can be put into perspective with other world peacekeeping missions. Let us take the example of the United Nations Mission for Stabilization in Haiti (MINUSTAH), active from 2004 to 2017. While MINUSTAH encountered major challenges, its ability to establish constructive dialogues with local authorities and communities has made it possible to obtain tangible results in terms of security and development. Lessons can be learned from this experience, by integrating value work methodologies to strengthen the effectiveness of interventions in the DRC.
### A call to renewed international attention
In conclusion, the approach initiated by Monusco in Beni, under the leadership of General Ulisses de Mesquita Gomes, opens the way to a significant transformation of civil protection operations in the country. However, to truly make a difference, it is essential that this initiative is accompanied by a reinforced commitment from the international community. Adequate financial and human resources, as well as reinforced involvement of the countries contributing troops, are essential to provide effective support to the Congolese population.
Finally, rigorous monitoring of the impact of these new measures will be essential to assess their success and adjust the strategies accordingly. So that the inhabitants of Beni, and more broadly those of the whole DRC, can hope for a better life, collaboration between national and international forces must be built on confidence, efficiency and above all, unconditional respect for human rights. In this fragile context, the protection of civilians must remain the absolute priority of all the forces engaged in the field.