### Insecurity in Goma: reflections on a spiral of violence and hope
The city of Goma, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, continues to face growing insecurity, demonstrated by the series of violent incidents that occurred around the weekend of May 24. The situation, marked by an increase in armed attacks and acts of popular justice, raises important questions about security, local governance and the role of the international community in the pacification process.
#### A table of recent violence
During the night of May 24, a motorcycle taxi driver was shot down by armed men in the Virunga district, an act of violence which testifies to an omnipresent insecurity. This drama was accompanied by other incidents, including the lynching of an alleged thief in Himbi and the armed attack in the Lac Vert district, where a young girl was removed. These events, although tragic in themselves, are the reflection of a larger spiral of violence which seems to be gangrene certain aspects of daily life in Goma.
The inhabitants, faced with this violence, seem to turn to popular justice initiatives, as evidenced by the lynching of the young man accused of theft. This phenomenon, however understandable in the context of generalized anger and frustration in the face of the perceived ineffectiveness of judicial institutions, asks ethical and practical questions. Can popular justice really offer a lasting solution, or is it likely to further worsen the situation by promoting a cycle of violence?
### M23 interventions: issues and perspectives
The situation has been complex since the city takeover by the M23 movement, which has implemented security -ending operations. These interventions have led to the seizure of weapons, ammunition and to arrests of supposed elements belonging to various armed forces. Although these actions have been perceived by some as a desire to give security to the inhabitants, they also raise questions about the legitimacy of such control by an armed group.
Many people fear that these interventions only increase tensions between M23 and other armed groups or regular forces. What is the long -term impact of such strategies? Would it be possible to find a less coercive approach, which could promote confidence between citizens and security forces, while maintaining a secure environment?
### towards a lasting solution: the need for an integrated approach
The security situation in Goma challenges, but it also evokes the need for reflection on lasting solutions. Persistent insecurity is not only a military or security affair; It is also the result of many socio-economic factors. Young people, often idle and confronted with a lack of opportunities, are particularly vulnerable to recruitments by armed groups, or behaviors such as theft.
Economic development initiatives aimed at creating jobs and strengthening education are essential alternatives to fight insecurity. At the same time, civic education and awareness of non-violence could play a crucial role in bringing lasting changes in mentalities.
### The need for regional and international cooperation
The interaction between local issues and regional dynamics calls for proactive international cooperation. The international community, through organizations such as UN and NGOs, performs a fundamental role in stabilizing the region, promoting political solutions and supporting development efforts.
It is urgent to create constructive dialogues between all stakeholders, including local authorities, armed groups, NGOs and citizens. How to engage these different voices in a conversation that promotes peace and resilience?
#### Conclusion: Between despair and hope
Goma is a microcosm of the challenges of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where despair in the face of violence coexists with a palpable hope in many inhabitants. Their desire for peace and security is legitimate and must be at the heart of discussions on the future. In the end, the path to sustainable stability lies in the ability to listen, to dialogue and to propose inclusive solutions, which take into account the often marginalized voices of those who live the consequences of this daily violence.