The United Nations Security Council has extended the mission of the UN Stabilisation Force in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) until December 20, 2026, in response to rising violence and worsening humanitarian conditions in the country’s eastern provinces.
The extension was approved unanimously under Resolution 2808 (2025) during the Council’s 10075th meeting, reflecting continued global concern over insecurity in the region.
Council members reaffirmed their support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC, emphasizing that the Congolese government holds the main responsibility for protecting its citizens.
“The Security Council remains gravely concerned by the rapidly deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC, particularly in North and South Kivu, where civilians continue to bear the brunt of armed conflict,” the resolution stated.
The Council condemned the ongoing attacks by the M23 rebel group, noting that the offensive, reportedly backed by the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF), threatens regional stability. It called on the armed group to stop its operations immediately and urged Rwanda to remove its forces from Congolese territory.
Resolution 2808 grants MONUSCO authority under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, allowing the mission to take all necessary measures to protect civilians, counter armed groups, and support the government in restoring control over conflict-affected areas.
“MONUSCO remains a critical pillar for civilian protection and for supporting Congolese authorities in restoring state authority in conflict-affected areas,” the Council highlighted, stressing that all actions must comply with international humanitarian and human rights law.
Under the renewed mandate, MONUSCO’s force will continue at its current strength: 11,500 military personnel, 600 military observers and staff officers, 443 police personnel, and 1,270 formed police unit members. The mission’s main objectives include safeguarding civilians, assisting peace processes, and contributing to long-term stability in the country.
The Council reaffirmed support for African-led mediation efforts, including those coordinated by the African Union and regional initiatives such as the Luanda and Nairobi processes.
“A durable solution to the crisis in eastern DRC can only be achieved through political dialogue, regional cooperation and the full implementation of agreed peace frameworks,” the resolution emphasized.
While preparations for MONUSCO’s eventual withdrawal are underway, the Council stressed that any reduction in the mission’s presence must be gradual, carefully planned, and based on improved national security capacity.
The resolution also highlighted concerns over widespread human rights violations, sexual violence in conflict, recruitment of children by armed groups, and the growing humanitarian emergency marked by mass displacement and severe food shortages.
