The International Contact Group (ICG) for the Great Lakes region has issued a strong demand for the immediate withdrawal of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), citing escalating violence and the occupation of key territories.
In the statement, endorsed by representatives from Belgium, Denmark, the European Union, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, highlights growing international pressure on Rwanda to cease military operations in the region.
The ICG reiterated that a military solution is not viable and urged all parties to engage in diplomatic and political dialogue. The group reaffirmed its support for African-led peace initiatives, particularly the Luanda and Nairobi Processes, commending efforts by Angolan President and African Union Chair João Lourenço, as well as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, in seeking a resolution to the crisis.
Call for Ceasefire and Immediate Withdrawal of RDF
The ICG strongly condemned the ongoing offensive by the M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) and the RDF in North and South Kivu, particularly their seizure of Kavumu airport and the city of Bukavu. The statement called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the unconditional withdrawal of M23/AFC from occupied territories, including Goma and Goma airport. Additionally, the ICG demanded the full withdrawal of the RDF from Congolese territory, underscoring the need for all parties to cease direct or indirect support for armed groups.
The ICG also stressed that the continued conflict undermines regional peace efforts, including commitments made at the joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit on February 8, 2025, which were later endorsed by the AU Peace and Security Council on February 14, 2025. The group urged the immediate implementation of a ceasefire and encouraged all armed factions to lay down their arms in favor of dialogue.
Condemnation of Human Rights Violations
In its statement, the ICG condemned severe human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law occurring in eastern DRC. The group expressed strong concern over reports of widespread sexual violence and called for thorough investigations to ensure accountability for perpetrators. The statement emphasized the necessity of supporting victims and ensuring unrestricted humanitarian access to affected areas.
Reinforcing State Authority and National Cohesion
The ICG reiterated its support for the sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity of the DRC. It called on the Congolese government to strengthen state authority and governance in the eastern regions, while also highlighting the importance of intra-Congolese dialogue initiatives, including church-led reconciliation efforts.
Appeal for Regional De-escalation
In its concluding remarks, the ICG urged all parties in the Great Lakes region to avoid further military escalation and engage constructively in the political peace process. The group called for renewed efforts to address the root causes of the prolonged conflict and to revitalize the 2013 Peace, Security, and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and the wider region.
