The humanitarian situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains deeply concerning, despite recent diplomatic progress, according to a UK statement at the UN Security Council.
Over 26 million people in the DRC are facing acute food insecurity, with 3.6 million at emergency levels. Conflict and displacement are exacerbating the effects of the Ebola outbreak and climate-related shocks.
The United Kingdom continues to support the humanitarian response, including its assistance to the Ebola response. However, all parties are urged to guarantee safe, rapid, and unhindered humanitarian access and remove obstacles to the delivery of lifesaving aid.
The illicit exploitation and trafficking of critical minerals in the region are sustaining armed groups, undermining trust, and depriving communities of legitimate development. The UK supports strengthening the Regional Certification Mechanism to address this issue.