The United Nations Stands Ready to Support Congo Against Aerial Violations by Rwanda
In a recent development at the Goma airport, the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has pledged its support to address the complaint filed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This complaint pertains to incidents of GPS interference and other violations of airspace involving the M23 rebels.
During an emergency session of the Security Council focusing on the situation in the DRC, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, Bintou Keita, emphasized MONUSCO’s commitment to providing documentation in support of the Congolese complaint. She urged Council members to do the same, highlighting how these incidents jeopardize the security of humanitarian operations and exacerbate the crisis in an already fragile region.
Rising Online Hate Speech and Threats Directed at MONUSCO
In addition to discussing the aerial violations, Bintou Keita expressed concern over the surge in online hate speech orchestrated by M23 affiliates. These campaigns target human rights defenders, civil society actors, and MONUSCO officials. Keita shared, “These hate speeches are personally targeting me, as well as the mission’s spokesperson, who has faced threats of sexual violence.”
Keita called on Congolese authorities to strongly condemn these attacks and safeguard the individuals being targeted. According to her statements, 32 human rights defenders have sought assistance from MONUSCO to ensure their safety. In response, the mission has established individual protection mechanisms in collaboration with local human rights networks.
Urgent Call for Immediate Action
Underlining the urgency of the situation in eastern DRC, Keita stressed the need for the Security Council to act promptly to address the crisis escalation. She reiterated that MONUSCO, in coordination with the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the Southern African Development Community Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC), continues to bolster its positions to protect civilians and counter the threat posed by the M23 rebels.
Keita also mentioned that while MONUSCO has temporarily relocated non-essential staff from Goma for security reasons, essential operations in the province remain ongoing. “We are steadfast in providing humanitarian aid and protecting civilians during this critical period,” she concluded.
As tensions escalate and threats loom, the international community’s support becomes increasingly vital to safeguarding peace and stability in the DRC. MONUSCO’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights and protecting civilians underscores the urgent need for collaborative action to address these challenges effectively.