G7 Foreign Ministers Condemn M23 Offensive in Congo, Demand Ceasefire and Withdrawal

From March 12 to 14, G7 foreign ministers held a meeting in Shalowah, Quebec, Canada, condemning the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group’s recent offensive in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The conflict has triggered widespread violence, displacement, and severe human rights abuses, including violations of international humanitarian law.

​Key Points from the G7 Joint Statement

1. ​Condemnation of Aggression:
   The statement accused M23, with Rwandan support, of launching an offensive that “flagrantly disregards the territorial integrity of the DRC.” It noted the escalation in violence, civilian displacement, and atrocities such as sexual violence and child recruitment.
2. ​Call for Withdrawal:
   G7 ministers reiterated their demand for M23 and Rwandan forces to immediately withdraw from all occupied territories. They also backed mediation efforts led by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
3. ​Political Solution and Accountability:
   The statement emphasized resolving the crisis through “political and diplomatic dialogue,” urging all parties—including M23 and the anti-government Forces Défenses de la Démocratie (FDLR)—to engage in talks. It also called for accountability mechanisms and the inclusion of women and youth in peace processes.
4. ​Regional Crisis Escalation:
   M23 has seized key eastern DRC cities, including Goma and Bukavu, and advanced into North and South Kivu provinces. UN data shows the conflict has displaced over 500,000 civilians since October 2024, exacerbating regional instability.

​Angola Mediates Ceasefire Ahead of Peace Talks

As preparations for direct negotiations between the DRC government and M23 began, Angola’s President João Lourenço—appointed as the African Union’s mediator—announced a unilateral ceasefire effective March 16 at midnight. The ceasefire demands include:

• An immediate halt to hostilities targeting civilians.
• No new territorial gains by either side.
• A return to the status quo before the M23 offensive.

The move aims to pave the way for peace talks in Luanda, Angola’s capital, where representatives from the DRC, M23, and regional stakeholders are expected to discuss a long-term solution.

​Context and Implications

The M23 rebellion, which emerged in 2012, has long been linked to Rwandan support, sparking concerns about foreign interference in the DRC. The conflict threatens regional security, with neighboring countries like Uganda and Burundi also facing spillover effects. The G7’s intervention reflects growing international pressure to end the cycle of violence and stabilize the region.

While the ceasefire offers hope for peace, challenges remain, including mistrust between the DRC government and M23, as well as the need for sustained international support to rebuild war-torn areas.