The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains troubling. A reflection from Godefroid Maregod, Pax Christi International’s Board member, on recent events helps us to better understand the difficult circumstances:

“The 64th anniversary of the DRC’s independence from Belgium was marked by sadness due to the M23 rebellion, supported by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF), capturing rural areas in the south of Lubero and advancing towards its capital. This led to the displacement of many people from their homes. Some families, not knowing where else to go, risked returning to live under M23 control.

Additionally, over thirty students were massacred by M23/RDF during their final exams in Masisi territory. The UN Security Council extended the DRC sanctions regime and the mandate of the Group of Experts, instead of authorising SADC support for the DRC Armed Forces against M23/RDF, as expected by many Congolese.

The M23/RDF’s advance towards Lubero Centre and Butembo has caused widespread concern, leading young civilians to block roads in an attempt to halt their progress. Unfortunately, this resulted in the burning of a humanitarian convoy and the death of two NGO workers.

Bishop Melchisédech Sikuli Paluku of Butembo Beni has urged authorities to take action, expressing the people’s frustration with unfulfilled promises and the dire social and security situation in North Kivu.”

Godefroid Maregod will be speaking, together with other esteemed Civil Society representatives, at our webinar “Towards Sustainable Peace in the DRC: Local and Regional Strategies in Response to the Security Crisis” tomorrow, Wednesday 17th July at 1pm Brussels time, co-organised with EurAc.