The UN Security Council addressed the escalating crisis in Goma, DRC, emphasizing the urgent need for international action to stop the violence between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. Vivian van de Perre from MONUSCO reported over 178,000 people displaced, and called for humanitarian corridors and a political solution to avert further suffering and potential conflict escalation.
The UN Security Council convened for an emergency meeting focused on the escalating crisis in Goma, the capital of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Vivian van de Perre, the Deputy Head of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), presented alarming updates regarding the humanitarian conditions exacerbated by violent conflicts between Rwanda-backed M23 rebels and Congolese forces. She underscored the lack of necessary international intervention to halt the ongoing fighting.
The recent clashes have led to widespread displacement, with over 178,000 individuals fleeing Kalehe territory as the M23 gained control of Minova. More than 34,000 of these displaced individuals have sought refuge in overcrowded Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps around Goma, overwhelming the city’s already strained infrastructure.
Despite previous calls for de-escalation from Member States, Ms. van de Perre noted that M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) aggressively attacked Goma, resulting in severe civilian casualties and displacement. MONUSCO has become a critical refuge, accommodating numerous surrendering combatants and civilians, albeit with its bases struggling under the influx.
The conditions of UN bases have raised concerns for staff safety, compounded by mortar fire hitting MONUSCO installations. Additionally, evacuation efforts for injured personnel have faced obstacles due to ongoing conflicts and the closure of Goma airport. Nonetheless, MONUSCO continues to facilitate essential medical evacuations amid these challenges.
The capture of Goma’s airport by M23 and Rwandan forces has raised fears of weapon proliferation, as combatants hide among civilians. The situation has made women and children particularly vulnerable to sexual and gender-based violence, which Ms. van de Perre called for safeguarding against, along with ensuring access to basic services.
She affirmed the urgent need for humanitarian corridors between Goma and surrounding areas and stressed that a military solution was insufficient. Advocating for renewed political dialogue under the Angolan government, she urged efforts to avert a potential third Congo War. In conclusion, coordinated international action remains imperative to alleviate the crisis in Goma, with MONUSCO serving as a vital support despite being tested by ongoing violence and logistical issues.
The protection of civilians and prioritizing peaceful resolutions must be emphasized to effectively reduce suffering in Goma, as reiterated by MONUSCO’s deputy head.
The UN Security Council’s meeting highlighted the critical humanitarian crisis in Goma, driven by the violent clashes between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. With over 178,000 individuals displaced, urgent international action is necessary. MONUSCO’s role remains crucial, yet it faces challenges in resource allocation and safety. A political solution and the establishment of humanitarian corridors are essential to address the ongoing violence and alleviate the suffering of civilians in the region.
Original Source: news.un.org
