The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is taking center stage at the United Nations, with Prime Minister Judith Suminwa leading a bold diplomatic push to address critical international and domestic challenges. During her visit to New York for the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council, she outlined the DRC’s priorities, emphasizing civilian protection, justice for victims, and democratic resilience amid rising tensions.
protecting civilians in conflict zones
At the heart of the DRC’s agenda is the urgent need to shield civilians from the devastating impact of ongoing conflicts. Prime Minister Suminwa called for renewed global commitment to enforce international humanitarian law, stressing that protection must extend beyond declarations to tangible action. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, and survivors of violence, remain the most affected, and their protection cannot be deferred.
democratic dissent within legal boundaries
Addressing recent calls for protests against constitutional reforms, Suminwa reaffirmed the DRC’s democratic foundations. “Our nation operates under a constitutional framework,” she stated, acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly while insisting that all demonstrations must comply with national laws. The government’s stance underscores the balance between freedom and order, ensuring that dissent does not undermine national stability.
sexual violence as a weapon of war
One of the most pressing issues highlighted by the Prime Minister is the systematic use of sexual violence in conflict—a tactic widely condemned but persistently underaddressed in peace negotiations. Suminwa urged the Security Council to prioritize this crisis, demanding that ceasefire agreements include protections for survivors and mechanisms for justice. “Impunity cannot stand,” she declared, calling for sanctions against perpetrators and holistic support for victims.
ebola response and humanitarian resilience
Beyond security concerns, the DRC’s fight against the Ebola epidemic remains a critical priority. With international partners pledging nearly $1 billion in funding, Suminwa emphasized the importance of timely disbursement to avoid delays in treatment and containment. The government has allocated $50 million to the response, focusing on research, healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic safeguards to prevent the outbreak from escalating into a broader humanitarian disaster.
