MONUSCO Welcomes Declaration of Principles for Peace in DRC
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MONUSCO, the United Nations Association Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has welcomed a significant Declaration of Principles signed in Doha, Qatar. This declaration, brokered under Qatari mediation, signifies a crucial step toward peace in the DRC, a nation long plagued by conflict.
The statement, released on July 19, 2025, highlights the parties’ commitment to prioritizing peaceful resolutions, establishing a ceasefire, and creating a joint mechanism for its practical implementation. Mr.Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and Acting Head of MONUSCO, emphasized the declaration’s importance in easing tensions and protecting civilians.
“This important declaration marks a shift towards easing tensions and protecting civilians seriously affected by the conflict,” Mr. Lemarquis stated. “We commend the commitments made and call for their timely and good-faith implementation.”
Key commitments within the declaration include facilitating the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees. It also promotes inclusive dialog, deemed essential for addressing the root causes of the conflict and achieving sustainable peace.
The declaration follows a period of intensified conflict, with the M23 launching an offensive earlier this year that resulted in the capture of cities like Goma and Bukavu. This offensive led to thousands of civilian deaths, hundreds of thousands displaced, and numerous human rights violations.
This Declaration of Principles comes less than a month after a separate peace agreement was signed between Congo and Rwanda, a country frequently accused by the Congolese government of supporting the M23. MONUSCO’s statement underscored the declaration’s focus on civilian protection and its support for the ceasefire, with MONUSCO and its partners ready to assist in its verification.
MONUSCO concluded by urging all parties to uphold their commitments, engage in good faith, and prioritize human rights, security, and the aspirations of the Congolese people in all their decisions.
Evergreen Insights
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced protracted periods of instability and conflict,particularly in its eastern provinces. Various armed groups,including the M23,have been active,contributing to widespread displacement and humanitarian crises. International efforts, such as those led by MONUSCO and mediated by countries like Qatar, are crucial for fostering dialogue and achieving lasting peace.The past context of the DRC’s struggles involves complex geopolitical factors, resource competition, and ethnic tensions, making sustained diplomatic engagement and commitment to peace agreements vital for the region’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the importance of the Declaration of Principles for the DRC?
- The Declaration of Principles is significant as it prioritizes peaceful means, establishes a ceasefire, and sets up a joint mechanism for implementation, marking a shift towards easing tensions and protecting civilians.
- Who mediated the Declaration of Principles for the DRC?
- The Declaration of Principles for the DRC was mediated by Qatar.
- What are some key commitments in the Declaration of Principles?
- Key commitments include facilitating the voluntary return of displaced persons and refugees and encouraging inclusive dialogue to address the conflict’s root causes.
- What role does MONUSCO play in the DRC peace process?
- MONUSCO is ready to support the cessation of hostilities, particularly through the establishment of a credible and jointly agreed verification mechanism for the ceasefire.
- When was the declaration of Principles signed?
- The Declaration of Principles was signed on July 19, 2025.
- What recent events preceded this declaration?
- the declaration follows an offensive by the M23 earlier this year and a peace agreement signed between Congo and Rwanda.
