Topic: 2024-The Situation in Rwanda
Country: Republic of Korea
Delegate Name: Isaac Webb
Honorable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,
The Republic of Korea expresses deep concern over the renewed conflict between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, which has been exacerbated by the resurgence of the M23 insurgency and the presence of armed groups like the FDLR. This prolonged conflict has caused severe humanitarian consequences and threatens regional stability. As such, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) must take swift and balanced action to foster dialogue, curb the illicit exploitation of resources, and ensure peacekeeping efforts are aligned with the evolving situation.
The Republic of Korea Stresses the importance of diplomatic efforts to ensure the continuation of the August 2024 ceasefire agreement between the DRC and Rwanda. The UNSC should: Enhance Diplomatic Engagement: Support direct talks between the DRC and Rwanda, facilitated by UN envoys and regional actors like the African Union and Southern African Development Community (SADC). Promote confidence-building measures: establish mechanisms to monitor ceasefire compliance, protect vulnerable populations, and hold violators accountable. Strengthen regional cooperation: encourage greater collaboration among neighboring states to address regional security concerns, involving entities like the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).
The exploitation of North Kivu’s valuable resources by armed groups such asM23 and FDLR remains a critical driver of conflict. The UNSC must: strengthen resource control: enhance oversight of resource extraction and impose sanctions on those profiting from illicit trade. Promote sustainable resource management: support economic alternatives to reduce dependency on resource extraction for arms funding, through investments in local development and infrastructure.Encourage International Cooperation: Foster collaboration with organizations like INTERPOL to combat smuggling networks fueling the conflict.
Republic of Korea Believes that, for now, the situation in Rwanda does not necessitate direct peacekeeping deployment. However, the UNSC should:Support Cross-Border Security Cooperation: strengthen border security forces through logistical support and early warning systems to prevent cross-border violence. Maintain flexibility for future interventions: reassess the situation should it escalate further, and consider the deployment of peacekeepers if necessary. The Republic of Korea remains committed to the UN’s efforts to promote peace and security in the Great Lakes region. The UNSC must take a balanced approach, focusing on diplomacy, resource regulation, and multilateral peacekeeping to address the root causes of this ongoing conflict and protect the lives of millions affected by the crisis.
Thank you.
