In a bold statement from the United Nations Security Council, James Swan, head of the MONUSCO mission, delivered a clear political message to Kinshasa this Friday. He urged all Congolese stakeholders to reach agreement on the framework for an inclusive national dialogue while emphasizing the urgent need to safeguard civic space and fundamental freedoms—particularly freedom of expression and assembly—so that all parties can engage in a peaceful and secure environment.

The timing of this appeal is critical, as constitutional debates continue to deepen divisions across the country, and tensions have recently escalated at the headquarters of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) in Kinshasa.

Security reforms and national priorities

Swan also commended the establishment of a national commission tasked with overseeing security sector reform, alongside the ongoing development of the country’s first-ever national security policy, led by the presidency. These initiatives signal a potential turning point in the DRC’s efforts to stabilize its security landscape.