Urgent Call for Action to Address the Escalating Crisis in Goma, DRC
The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting regarding the worsening humanitarian crisis in Goma, DRC, due to violence between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. Deputy Head of MONUSCO, Vivian van de Perre, highlighted the massive displacement and dire humanitarian situation, calling for urgent international intervention and the establishment of humanitarian corridors while emphasizing the need for a political solution to prevent further escalation.
The UN Security Council convened an emergency meeting to address increasing violence in Goma, the eastern DRC’s capital. Vivian van de Perre, the Deputy Head of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), emphasized the severe humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflicts between Rwandan-backed M23 rebels and Congolese forces, necessitating immediate international intervention to halt the violence.
Recent clashes have forced over 178,000 individuals to flee Kalehe territory, particularly after the M23 seized control of Minova. Over 34,000 displaced persons have arrived at overcrowded IDP sites in Goma, aggravating existing humanitarian conditions and straining the city’s infrastructure.
Despite previous warnings, the M23 and Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) assaulted Goma using heavy weaponry, resulting in civilian casualties and heightened displacement. Ms. van de Perre stressed the importance of MONUSCO in ensuring safety, as many civilians and officials have sought refuge within its bases, which are currently unable to handle the influx of people seeking safety.
The safety of UN personnel is compromised as their bases have come under fire, with reported mortar hits and damage to equipment. The situation has complicated casualty evacuation efforts, though MONUSCO continues to facilitate these evacuations in partnership with the Southern African Development Community mission.
Political instability is rising as combatants integrate into civilian areas following the M23’s advance toward Goma. The vulnerability of women and children has surged, prompting Ms. van de Perre to insist on protection measures against gender-based violence and essential services.
The UN representative advocated for urgent humanitarian corridors between Goma, Minova, and Bukavu and urged the reopening of key transport points. She reiterated the necessity of pursuing a political resolution, urging the revival of the Luanda Process to prevent an escalation into a potential third Congo war. MONUSCO remains critical in assisting vulnerable populations, but its operational capabilities are strained amid ongoing violence and logistical challenges.
The crisis in Goma necessitates immediate international action to halt the violence perpetrated by the M23 rebels and Rwandan forces. With significant civilian displacement and deteriorating humanitarian conditions, the need for coordinated efforts is vital. Establishing humanitarian corridors and focusing on a political solution through the Luanda Process could alleviate the suffering and prevent a larger conflict. MONUSCO’s role remains crucial, yet its resources are under severe strain due to the ongoing hostilities.
Original Source: news.un.org
