DRC Uses UN Security Council Presidency to Push Global Action Against Conflict-Related

New York, July 7, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing to use its presidency of the United Nations Security Council to place the protection of civilians, the fight against impunity, and the Women, Peace and Security agenda at the center of international discussions. For the first time in more than three decades, Kinshasa is holding the rotating presidency of the Security Council, which began on July 1, 2026. The government intends to use this diplomatic platform to highlight issues drawn from its own experience with prolonged conflict, particularly in eastern DRC. As part of this agenda, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa will chair a high-level public debate in New York on July 8 under the theme: “Women, Peace and Security - Honoring the Promise of International Law to Survivors of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence.” The meeting comes amid renewed concerns over conflict-related sexual violence in several regions worldwide, including eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where civilians continue to face serious security challenges. According to the Congolese government, the debate aims to give greater visibility to survivors and encourage the international community to transform existing commitments into concrete measures. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening accountability mechanisms, improving access to healthcare and justice for victims, expanding reparations programs, and ensuring long-term reintegration support. Kinshasa also intends to highlight the links between sexual violence, conflict economies, and the illegal exploitation of natural resources, arguing that these factors contribute to the continuation of instability in conflict-affected areas. The debate will mark the beginning of a broader diplomatic initiative focused on peace, security, and natural resource governance. A meeting under the Arria formula is scheduled for July 13 to examine the relationship between natural resources and conflict, followed by a high-level debate on July 21 dedicated to “Natural Resource Governance: The Foundation of Peace, Security, and Prosperity.” Through its Security Council presidency, the DRC says it aims to contribute its experience to global discussions on peacebuilding, justice, and civilian protection while advocating for stronger international responses to crises. The country joined the United Nations Security Council as one of five new non-permanent members for the 2026-2027 term, alongside Bahrain, Colombia, Latvia, and Liberia. Although elected members do not hold veto power, they participate fully in negotiations and voting processes and can influence the Council’s agenda and resolutions. During its mandate, the DRC is also part of the A3 group, which brings together African countries serving on the Security Council. This framework allows coordination with other African members and contributes to the representation of African Union positions on issues affecting the continent.