Security Council Called to Back Peace Efforts in Eastern DR Congo

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UN Urges Stronger Coordination to Support Peace in Eastern DR Congo

During a recent briefing to UN ambassadors, Huang Xia, the UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, called for greater coordination among political and peace efforts to address the worsening crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Xia expressed concern over the continued advances by the M23 rebel group, part of the Congo River Alliance, despite international calls for de-escalation. The group’s territorial expansion continues amid mounting sanctions and efforts by the UN Security Council, African regional bodies, and the European Union to stabilize the region.

He highlighted that a ceasefire is not yet being upheld, humanitarian conditions are deteriorating, and neighboring countries—especially Burundi, Uganda, and Rwanda—are seeing an influx of Congolese refugees.

“This troubling reality calls for renewed commitment to turn recent diplomatic progress into lasting peace,” Xia stated.

Progress in Diplomatic Efforts

Xia welcomed recent developments in peace negotiations associated with the Nairobi and Luanda processes, supported by the African Union (AU), East African Community (EAC), and Southern African Development Community (SADC). A roadmap adopted on 24 March, which includes a facilitation team with two African women, marks a milestone in peacebuilding efforts.

He praised Angolan President João Lourenço’s role in facilitating dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda, especially efforts to lift Rwanda’s defensive measures and address the threat posed by the FDLR armed group.

The envoy also acknowledged the Doha initiative, led by Qatar, and recent meetings between the presidents of Rwanda and the DRC, including negotiations involving the M23 rebels.

“All of this shows that peace remains possible,” Xia said, highlighting the Congolese government’s willingness to engage directly with the M23 as an encouraging step. He called for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors as top priorities for ongoing negotiations.

A displaced family sits in front of their makeshift shelter in Goma, North Kivu province, DR Congo.