The United Nations (UN) has transferred control of its first base of operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the Congolese government. The move constitutes a significant part of the UN’s strategy to halt its humanitarian mission within the DRC by the end of 2024. The decision was made in December 2023 despite persistent reports of instability in the region.
The UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUC) confirmed the base’s transition to the Congolese government’s control. The National Police of the DRC will now operate it. This steppingstone illustrates one of the first acts of UN disengagement from the country.
The UN has maintained a presence in the DRC since 1999 with the establishment of MONUC after a civil war. The current peacekeeping operation, MONUSCO, began its mandate in 2010, amidst fluctuations of stability and the constant presence of opposition movements, guerilla forces and other factions.
The UN’s efforts in the Congo, involving the deployment of over 30,000 peacekeepers and aid workers since 2010, have been one of its most extensive operations. MONUSCO and its predecessor, MONUC, have significantly aided in combating rebels, protecting civilians, and reestablishing peace in the DRC for over two decades.
The withdrawal follows an earlier request by the most recently elected DRC government, which won a controversial vote in January of this year. However, Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula urged that the exit of MONUSCO “does not necessarily mean the end of the fight we are undertaking to protect the territorial interests of our country, we must continue to struggle,” as reported.
The DRC continues to experience an escalation of conflict between rebels, such as the March 23 Movement, and the country’s armed forces. As of June 2023, the conflicts in the eastern part of the DRC have internally displaced more than 6.1 million people.
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