The MONUSCO Peacekeeping Mission in the DRC (2010–2024)

Abstract

Background: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has gone through armed conflicts for decades, which have led to humanitarian catastrophes, political instability, and extensive violence. In reaction, the UN in 2010 replaced the earlier mandates with the United Nations Organisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). The study critically evaluated the MONUSCO mandate in the DRC from 2010 to 2024. Aim: This research study evaluated the effectiveness, challenges, and impact of MONUSCO’s peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from 2010 to 2024. Methodology: A content analysis was performed on the documents. The NVivo software tool was used to analyse the qualitative data. The data analysis process was conducted in 7 steps: gathering and arranging data, getting familiar with it, creating initial codes, looking for themes, going over themes, naming and defining themes, and writing up the findings. Data analysis themes were framed from the conflict resolution theory. Results: MONUSCO’s presence has been significant but limited. It has facilitated short-term stability and conflict resolution, yet achieving lasting peace and development remains challenging without stronger local governance and economic growth. Ongoing surveillance, flexible peacebuilding structures, and improved accountability are necessary to sustain the mission's legacy. Conclusion: The results highlight the necessity for ongoing surveillance, adaptable peacebuilding structures, and improved accountability systems to maintain the mission's legacy during this transition.