Democratic Republic of Congo | MONUSCO

Due to the volatility of the crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo — especially in the eastern city of Goma, where Rwandan-backed M23 forces have seized control and are advancing — we encourage readers to look to MONUSCO and UN sources for current updates. Material herein refers primarily to the origins of MONUSCO and U.S. engagement.

The peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has helped maintain security in the wake of insecurity, conflict and humanitarian crises. MONUSCO has been especially invaluable in eastern Congo where rebel groups continue to fight over territory rich in minerals and other resources. 

The DRC has expressed its preference for MONUSCO’s “robust posture” in volatile regions, contributing to the renewal of MONUSCO’s mandate in December 2024. Currently, the mission holds the three objectives of protecting civilians that include supporting disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, as well as assisting with security sector reform.

Learn more about how MONUSCO advanced U.S. and Congolese interests

  • Rule of Law

    MONUSCO has trained police, corrections officers, and members of the judiciary to strengthen the rule of law and counter impunity. The mission has supported mobile courts to increase access to justice in remote areas and provided technical support to the military and civilian justice systems. 

  • Humanitarian Assistance

    Millions of people throughout the DRC — particularly in the country’s eastern provinces — face acute humanitarian challenges. An estimated 5.6 million Congolese are internally displaced, 23.4 million are estimated to be food insecure, and 25.4 million are currently in need of humanitarian assistance. MONUSCO has worked with the government, humanitarian actors and the DRC police force to provide humanitarian assistance to displaced populations. 

  • Civilian Protection

    MONUSCO’s Force Intervention Brigade supports targeted offensive operations against armed groups in eastern Congo to protect civilians and promote stability in the region. MONUSCO has also established community alert networks and local protection committees in conflict-affected areas. The networks and committees help protect civilians from risk through cooperation with local security services, local authorities and civil society. 

The Work of MONUSCO

DRC Woman

MONUSCO Website

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UN DRC

MONUSCO Mandate