Publication:

Communiqué of the 1261st Meeting of the Peace and Security Council, held on 14 February 2025 at the level of Heads of State and Government, on the situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The Peace and Security Council, acting under Article 7 of its Protocol, expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, emphasizing the need for collective action. It reaffirmed respect for DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while unequivocally condemning the activities of M23, ADF, FDLR, and other armed groups, demanding their immediate withdrawal. The Council endorsed key regional communiqués, called for humanitarian access, and stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement. It commended mediation efforts, urged armed groups to participate in the P-DDRCS, and supported merging the Luanda and Nairobi processes. The AU Commission, EAC, and SADC were tasked with enhancing coordination, establishing funding mechanisms, and ensuring harmonization. The Council urged respect for IHL and IHRL, condemned attacks on civilians and peacekeepers, and called for addressing the root causes of the conflict. It pledged to remain actively seized of the matter.