The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has taken center stage on the world stage by assuming the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council for the entire month of July 2026. This historic milestone comes just six months after the country began its two-year term as a non-permanent member for the 2026-2027 mandate — a diplomatic role the DRC had not held in more than three decades, last serving in this capacity from 1990 to 1991.
Under the guiding theme “More peace, more justice, more development, and more multilateralism”, the Congolese presidency is led day-to-day by Ambassador Zénon Mukongo Ngay. Kinshasa is leveraging this international platform to connect collective security with sustainable development goals, amplifying Africa’s voice in global decision-making.
key priorities on the drc’s un agenda
The Congolese delegation has outlined several core priorities for its presidency:
- Governance of natural resources: A high-level public debate is scheduled for July 22, 2026, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi. The session will highlight how illicit mineral exploitation fuels armed conflict and undermine peace.
- Combating sexual violence in conflict zones: This issue was already brought to the forefront earlier in the month by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, who emphasized the urgent need for accountability and protection mechanisms.
- Regional security and international response: While addressing ongoing global crises such as the situations in the Middle East, Sudan, and Haiti, the DRC is also using its platform to draw attention to the humanitarian toll of the conflict in its eastern provinces. Through strategic diplomacy, Kinshasa aims to secure stronger international sanctions against armed groups and their external backers — without compromising its neutral role as Council president.
As the DRC navigates complex geopolitical terrain, its presidency serves not only as a testament to its growing diplomatic influence but also as a clarion call for justice, sustainable development, and collective action on the continent.
