The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting regarding the escalating crisis in Goma, DR Congo. Vivian van de Perre from MONUSCO reported over 178,000 people displaced due to fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. MONUSCO faces challenges in accommodating refugees, enhancing the need for urgent international action and a political solution to prevent further conflict.
The United Nations Security Council recently convened for a second emergency meeting within three days to discuss the escalating crisis in Goma, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Vivian van de Perre, the Deputy Head of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), provided a briefing on the urgent humanitarian situation caused by the conflict between the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, and Congolese forces.
Ms. van de Perre reported that recent clashes had triggered a significant displacement crisis, with over 178,000 individuals fleeing Kalehe territory after the M23 gained control of Minova. Over 34,000 of these displaced people have sought refuge in overcrowded sites near Goma, further straining the local infrastructure and exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
She stated, “Despite the appeals from Member States during the Security Council meeting on 26 January, the M23/RDF [Rwanda Defence Force] launched an attack on Goma, using heavy direct and indirect fire.” This offensive has resulted in numerous civilian casualties and traumatic experiences within the community. Ms. van de Perre emphasized MONUSCO’s essential role in providing refuge and protection amid the ongoing violence.
However, she remarked, “MONUSCO’s bases are not able to accommodate the large number of surrendering elements and civilians seeking refuge.” Pressure on resources has increased as the Uruguayan Battalion (URUBATT) alone has taken in around 1,200 Congolese soldiers and over a thousand civilians, highlighting the inadequacies faced by MONUSCO.
The situation has worsened due to attacks on UN installations, compromising security as two mortars hit MONUSCO bases recently. Ms. van de Perre reported, “Our bases are not safe,” and mentioned the destruction of essential facilities by mortar attacks. Despite challenges, MONUSCO continues to facilitate medical evacuations, working alongside the Southern African Development Community mission.
The conflict has led to the M23 and Rwandan forces capturing Goma’s airport, increasing the risk of weapon proliferation. There has also been a concerning rise in vulnerability to sexual and gender-based violence as families get separated and prisoners escape from the Goma prison. Ms. van de Perre pleaded for protection measures, urging, “Let us please draw on our humanity and do our utmost to bring an immediate end to such levels of violence and suffering.”
Furthermore, she called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and the reopening of critical airport and border points. Ms. van de Perre emphasized that military actions alone will not resolve the conflict, advocating for a return to political discussions under the Angolan Government’s Luanda Process to prevent further escalation into a potential third Congo war.
In conclusion, she underscored the need for urgent international cooperation to address the humanitarian crisis in Goma. Despite ongoing challenges, MONUSCO plays a critical role in supporting vulnerable populations, though its functions are being heavily tested by the prevailing violence and logistical challenges. The safety of civilians and the urgency for a peaceful resolution remain paramount in alleviating the suffering of the people in Goma.
The ongoing crisis in Goma necessitates immediate international action to address the urgent humanitarian situation exacerbated by violence. With over 178,000 individuals displaced and the conditions under MONUSCO severely strained, the protection of civilians must take precedence. Diplomatic efforts, such as the resumption of the Luanda Process, are essential to prevent further escalation of the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the affected populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
