In his speech to the UN, President Félix Tshisekedi expressed his desire to accelerate the withdrawal of MONUSCO in the DRC, stressing that the UN peacekeeping mission has failed to resolve conflicts in the country. He also calls for sanctions against the perpetrators of serious crimes in the DRC. President Tshisekedi refuses to dialogue with armed groups who do not respect the peace processes and denounces the massacres perpetrated by the M23. Finally, it confirms the holding of general elections in December, with measures to ensure the transparency and credibility of the vote.

The security situation in Haiti has become an international concern, with armed gangs causing numerous victims and terrorizing the population. Haiti has requested help from the international community to establish a multinational police force. Several countries have pledged to support Haiti in this fight, offering members of the security forces and logistical support. The United States will provide logistical support, but will not send ground security forces. This international force will act in complementarity with the efforts of the Haitian government to guarantee long-term security. It is essential that the international community continues to support Haiti in its reconstruction and stability. The establishment of this force is a crucial step in fighting gangs and restoring security in Haiti.

The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Denise NYAKERU TSHISEKEDI, met with the Office of the United Nations Under-Secretary for Conflict-Related Sexual Violence during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This meeting made it possible to present the work of the National Fund for the reparation of victims of sexual violence in the context of conflict and crimes against the peace and security of humanity (FONAREV) and to identify avenues of collaboration to fight against these violence. Fonarev presented its actions, including the commemoration of Genocost and homelessness in five provinces of the DRC, and a promising collaboration is emerging with the United Nations Office to strengthen actions to combat sexual violence and provide more support. effective for victims. This meeting marks an important step in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC.

Iranian authorities are violently repressing commemorations in memory of protesters killed in 2022. Since September 16, families of victims of the “Women, Live Freedom” movement have tried to commemorate their loved ones, but have been faced with arrests, death threats and attacks by security forces. The Iranian authorities fear a resurgence of demonstrations and seek to muzzle any opposition. Despite the crackdown, some families are still resisting, but the situation raises questions about human rights in Iran and the need for greater protection of citizens.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times more potent than heroin, has become a major source of revenue for Mexican drug cartels. Its ease of production and transportation makes it an attractive choice for traffickers. Mexico has become a major hub for its trafficking to the United States, causing a crisis of addiction and overdose deaths. It is crucial to take steps to counter this situation, by strengthening cooperation between the two countries and raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl. The fight against this scourge must be an absolute priority.

Portugal, driven by its passion for rugby, is booming in the world of sport. Unfortunately, after a draw against Georgia, the Portuguese team narrowly missed out on a historic victory. Despite this, Portugal can be proud of their performance, showing their progress and determination. Under the leadership of their French coach, Patrice Lagisquet, the Portuguese players showed exemplary commitment, proving that they are an emerging force in world rugby. They can now look to the future with optimism and continue working hard to achieve their dream of achieving their first World Cup victory.

At the 2021 United Nations General Assembly, Africa’s First Ladies came together to discuss gender equality. The Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OPDAD) reviewed actions taken in their countries to promote gender equality, particularly in education, maternal and child health, women’s economic empowerment and the fight against gender-based violence. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi highlighted the importance of commitments to gender equality, while Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States, demonstrated her commitment to fighting discrimination. The unifying campaign for gender equality was examined in detail and new perspectives were considered. The First Ladies of Africa are resolutely committed to promoting greater gender equality on the continent.