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  • Politics

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have formalized a strengthened partnership aimed at improving detention conditions and expanding humanitarian action across the country, particularly in the eastern regions.

This milestone agreement was sealed during a high-level meeting in Kinshasa between ICRC delegation head François Moreillon, concluding his three-year mission in the DRC, and Guillaume Ngefa Atondoko Andali, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice. The encounter served as both a review of past cooperation and a platform to chart future priorities.

Enhanced collaboration for vulnerable populations

The discussions highlighted the critical need for sustainable solutions to address challenges in the DRC’s prison system, including funding shortages, inadequate nutrition for detainees, and limited access to healthcare in detention facilities. Both parties emphasized the importance of maintaining close coordination to ensure the protection and dignity of individuals deprived of liberty.

“My visit to the Ministry of Justice was primarily to express gratitude for the excellent collaboration we’ve maintained over these years,” Moreillon stated. “It was also an opportunity to reflect on our shared achievements and identify areas where we can deepen our partnership to improve detention conditions, particularly in eastern DRC where humanitarian needs remain acute.”

Progress in eastern DRC through neutral humanitarian channels

Since 1978, the ICRC has maintained a presence in the DRC, providing vital support to populations affected by armed conflict and violence. In recent years, its operations have focused on facilitating the release and transfer of detainees between armed groups and government forces, in strict adherence to international humanitarian law.

Between April 30 and May 15, 2025, the ICRC successfully coordinated the transfer of over 1,300 disarmed Congolese military personnel and their families from Goma to Kinshasa—a journey covering nearly 2,000 kilometers through active conflict zones. This operation, conducted at the request of the DRC Ministry of Defense and Veterans Affairs, MONUSCO, and the AFC/M23, underscored the ICRC’s role as an impartial humanitarian intermediary.

A legacy of resilience and ongoing commitment

As Moreillon concluded his mission, he expressed deep satisfaction with the partnership’s achievements while stressing the need for continued efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC. “This is a message of resilience to the Congolese people, who have endured decades of suffering, particularly in the eastern regions,” he noted. “Our collaboration with the Ministry of Justice has gained momentum, and we are hopeful that new ambitions will lead to lasting solutions for detainees and stronger guarantees for judicial rights.”

The ICRC’s mandate includes promoting respect for international humanitarian law and integrating its principles into national legal frameworks. In a context of deteriorating security and humanitarian conditions—particularly in eastern DRC—the organization remains committed to protecting civilians, facilitating access to essential services, and ensuring the humane treatment of detainees.