The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), known as MONUSCO, has officially ceased operations in South Kivu province after over two decades. This move comes at the request of the Congolese government, which has long criticized the mission’s effectiveness.
MONUSCO began its drawdown in January 2024, focusing initially on South Kivu. The mission will now shift its remaining operations to the war-torn provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. A full withdrawal from South Kivu signifies a complete handover of civilian protection responsibilities to the DRC’s national defense and security forces.
While the UN emphasizes continued support through civilian agencies, the departure of peacekeepers raises concerns about security in South Kivu, a region plagued by violence for decades. The Congolese government faces the challenge of ensuring the safety of civilians without the backing of a robust international peacekeeping force.
Over 100,000 UN peacekeepers have served in South Kivu since 2003. While the mission faced criticism for shortcomings, their presence undoubtedly contributed to a measure of stability in the region.
The success of the handover depends heavily on the preparedness and capabilities of the DRC’s security forces. Continued international support will be crucial in bolstering their capacity to maintain peace and stability.
The second phase of the withdrawal plan focuses on North Kivu, where M23 rebels backed by Rwanda have recently captured territory. The UN’s ability to peacefully transfer responsibilities in this volatile region remains to be seen.
The situation in DR Congo highlights the complex challenges of managing long-term peacekeeping missions. While withdrawal may be pursued at the national government’s request, it can leave a security vacuum that can be exploited by armed groups. Moving forward, international cooperation remains critical in supporting the DRC’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.
