President, let me start by thanking SRSG Keita and Ms. Nzale-Kove for briefing us today. I also welcome the participation of the representatives of the DRC, Rwanda and Angola in our meeting. I will make three broad points.
First, the United Kingdom thanks President Lourenço for his continued mediation efforts. We welcome progress made under August’s ceasefire agreement. Parties must now produce detailed plans outlining how and when their commitments will be met. They should also action the plans already in place.
During his recent visits to Angola, DRC and Rwanda recently, my Minister for Africa and the United Nations, Lord Collins of Highbury, encouraged all parties to engage in political dialogue. Whilst negotiations continue, the ceasefire must be respected. We call on all parties to the conflict, including non-state actors, to commit to de-escalation.
Second, the United Kingdom is grateful for SRSG Keita’s reflections on the human rights situation in the DRC. Widespread human rights violations and abuses and shrinking civic space are concerning.
We encourage the government of DRC to ensure the investigation into the incident at Makala prison is comprehensive and that those responsible are held accountable.
Despite the ceasefire, the humanitarian situation in eastern DRC remains dire. All parties must respect international humanitarian law and allow for unhindered humanitarian access.
The U.K. condemns the actions of all armed groups that cause terrible civilian suffering. Increased attacks by the Islamic State-affiliated ADF are particularly concerning, as are reports of continued M23 territorial expansion.
The significant challenges faced by the civilian population are now compounded by outbreaks of Mpox. Children account for 60 per cent of cases and 80 percent of deaths. The U.K. is finalising a further package of support for the Mpox response, and we encourage others to provide support.
Women and girls in DRC are particularly vulnerable and face some of the highest rates of sexual violence globally. Strengthening survivors’ access to justice and holding perpetrators to account is vital.
President, as we approach MONUSCO’s mandate renewal, the U.K. encourages the mission to learn lessons from its withdrawal from South Kivu. The protection of civilians must remain a priority.
Lastly, and crucially, the U.K. also calls on all parties to ensure MONUSCO has the access and freedom of movement required to deliver its mandate. Obstructing, or worse yet, targeting, peacekeeping missions is unacceptable. Council members must all send that clear message to the parties on this point.
