Rising Insecurity in Eastern Congo Slows Peace Efforts

Rising Insecurity in Eastern Congo Slows Peace Efforts
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The United Nations Security Council has warned that ongoing insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is undermining international efforts to achieve lasting peace in the country.

According to Reuters, despite recent peace agreements — including a truce between Congo and Rwanda and a statement of principles signed between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group — tensions remain high, with multiple armed groups active in the region.

Since February 2025, the Security Council has repeatedly urged all parties to refrain from violence against civilians. However, casualties continue to mount, with eastern Congo witnessing persistent clashes and instability.

The worsening conflict has fueled what the UN describes as one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. An estimated 5.9 million people are now internally displaced, while millions more face acute food insecurity and lack of basic services.

The Security Council stressed that the diplomatic initiatives led by the United States and Qatar have yet to produce tangible improvements on the ground. It called for renewed efforts to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and press all armed factions toward genuine dialogue.