The announcement of the March 23 Movement (M23) offensive towards the Kanyabayonga region in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has sowed concern and consternation across the international community. Recent attacks by M23 and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have led to massive population displacement, seriously disrupting humanitarian operations and endangering the security of civilians and MONUSCO peacekeeping forces.
The United Nations Security Council reacted strongly to these events, unequivocally condemning the acts of violence perpetrated by armed groups in the region. Council members expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, while emphasizing the urgency of ending the violence and protecting vulnerable civilians.
Beyond condemning the attacks, the Security Council stressed the importance of guaranteeing full and unhindered humanitarian access to the affected populations. The precarious humanitarian situation in the region requires rapid mobilization of humanitarian actors and donors to meet the needs of displaced and vulnerable people.
Furthermore, the Council insisted on the imperative to respect international humanitarian law and to put an end to human rights violations, in particular sexual violence and attacks against health establishments and schools. These barbaric acts must stop immediately to guarantee the protection of civilians and respect for their dignity.
Finally, the Security Council called for the resumption of diplomatic dialogue to achieve a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict in the DRC. Mediation efforts and regional peace initiatives must be strengthened to build the foundations for lasting stability in the Great Lakes region.
In conclusion, the situation in the DRC requires a collective and coordinated response from the international community to end the violence, protect civilians and promote stability and development in the region. The Security Council will continue to closely monitor developments and provide support to peace and reconstruction efforts in the DRC.