UN urges consensus and freedoms in DRC national dialogue

James Swan, head of MONUSCO, delivered a strong political message from the United Nations Security Council today, urging all Congolese stakeholders to reach a consensus on the framework for an inclusive national dialogue. Swan emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding civic spaces and fundamental freedoms—particularly freedom of expression and assembly—ensuring that all parties can engage in a peaceful and secure environment.

This appeal comes at a pivotal moment as the constitutional debate continues to deeply divide the nation, and the headquarters of the CENCO was recently targeted by pro-government supporters in Kinshasa.

On the security front, the UN diplomat welcomed the establishment of a national commission tasked with overseeing security sector reform, alongside the ongoing development of the country’s first-ever National Security Policy, led by the presidency.