M23 Rebels Seize Control of Goma Amid Escalating Conflict in DR Congo

"M23 Rebels Take Goma as Conflict Escalates in DR Congo"

UN peacekeepers, part of Monusco since 1999, face criticism for ineffectiveness, while regional forces struggle against rebel advances in DR Congo.

Alex Chen27 January 2025Last Update : 1 month ago

Tributes in Southport last year, near the scene of the attacks

www.bbc.com

On January 27, 2025, fighting intensified in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) as M23 rebels claimed control over Goma. The United Nations peacekeeping mission, known as Monusco, has faced criticism for its inability to protect civilians amid ongoing violence.

6 Key Takeaways

UN peacekeeping mission established in 1999
Monusco consists of over 10,000 troops
Force Intervention Brigade conducts offensive operations
Local anger over perceived mission failures
Mission extension granted despite calls to leave
Regional forces also struggling against rebels

Fast Answer: M23 rebels have reportedly taken control of Goma in eastern DR Congo as the UN peacekeeping force, Monusco, struggles to maintain order. The mission, which has been active since 1999, has faced significant backlash from local populations and was recently extended despite calls for its withdrawal.

The UN peacekeeping mission in DR Congo, Monusco, has been operational since 1999 and currently consists of over 10,000 troops. Among these, only the Force Intervention Brigade is authorized to conduct offensive operations against armed groups. This brigade played a significant role in defeating the M23 rebels in 2013. However, the mission has come under fire from the Congolese public, who feel that it has failed to effectively address the ongoing violence and instability in the region.

In December 2024, President Félix Tshisekedi labeled the mission a failure and requested its withdrawal by the end of the year. Nevertheless, the UN decided to extend Monusco’s mandate for another year. The Southern African Development Community (Sadc) has also deployed troops to eastern DR Congo, but they have struggled to halt the advance of rebel forces.

Over 10,000 troops are part of the Monusco mission.
The Force Intervention Brigade is the only unit authorized for offensive actions.
Nine South African soldiers and three Malawian soldiers have died in recent conflicts.

Despite the presence of international forces, including Monusco and Sadc troops, the situation in eastern DR Congo remains precarious. The M23 rebels’ recent claims of control over Goma highlight the challenges faced by peacekeeping efforts in the region. As violence continues, the effectiveness of the peacekeeping mission is increasingly questioned by both local leaders and the international community.

Notice: Canadian readers should be aware of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in DR Congo, which may have implications for international relations and aid efforts. Stay informed about how these developments could impact Canadian foreign policy and humanitarian assistance initiatives.

The situation in Goma underscores the ongoing struggles of the UN peacekeeping forces in DR Congo. As the M23 rebels assert control, the effectiveness of Monusco is under scrutiny, raising concerns about the safety of civilians and the stability of the region.