Description: The Rwandan – backed M23 rebels have reportedly made significant advances towards the South Kivu province followed by a strong ground and aerial offensive in the eastern parts of DR Congo. The long-lasting conflict has recently caused severe humanitarian crises and war crimes allegations have been raised by the UN troops and representatives on the ground. The Tanzanian summit has failed to bring both Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame to the negotiating table. Violence further erupted with the prison break in the city of Goma last week which further infuriated the armed conflict and enabled M23 rebel group to advance within the mineral – rich eastern parts of DR Congo.
Impact: With no concrete proposals and the limited involvement from the international community the conflict in DR Congo would further spread as both sides are refusing to bring themselves to a sensible compromise and work around a diplomatic solution. The UN’s limited involvement wouldn’t influence the development of events on the ground as the M23 have already occupied crucial areas and started to exploit the mineral rich region. Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict further complicates things as insurgencies from the Rwandan national army on Congolese territory were designated to have been constant. Without a resolute response from the neighboring countries and significantly larger involvement from international peacekeeping forces, the conflict could become a larger regional security and humanitarian crisis.