The U.N. and Congolese officials worked together to produce a disengagement plan for “a progressive, responsible, honorable and exemplary withdrawal of MONUSCO,” Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula said. Modalities have also been set for “the gradual transfer of tasks from MONUSCO to Congolese government, Lutundula said.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), known as MONUSCO, is poised to conclude its withdrawal from the country by December 31, 2024, after more than two decades of operations.
The 15,000-strong force will undergo a phased withdrawal, commencing in South Kivu province with the departure of 2,000 security personnel by the end of April. The move follows the Congolese government’s request for MONUSCO to leave, citing its failure to protect civilians from armed groups.
The UN and Congolese officials have collaborated on a disengagement plan, emphasizing a responsible and gradual transfer of tasks to the Congolese government. The withdrawal marks a significant shift after 25 years of MONUSCO’s presence, but officials stress it won’t be the end of the United Nations’ engagement in the country.
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