Putting EU Foreign Policy into action to foster peace, security, and social cohesion in the Great Lakes region

Led by Peter M. Wagner, Head of Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) at the European Commission, the visit aimed to discuss the EU's multi-faceted engagement in the DRC, focusing on conflict resolution, security institution strengthening, and social cohesion in one of Africa’s most complex crisis environments. 

"This visit is proof of our engagement with the DRC and shows the long-standing support of the EU and its Member States. We want to continue being a key partner for the DRC and in the wider region. As a result, FPI’s work has been very concrete. Whether on mediation, enhancing social cohesion or supporting the armed forces, it shows the EU's willingness to maintain a strong commitment to peace and stability in the Great Lakes region." 
_{Head of Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI) Peter M. Wagner}

EU's Support in the DRC: the European Peace Facility

The EU's support in the DRC is comprehensive, covering various aspects of the country's development. FPI is the Administrator for Assistance Measures under the European Peace Facility (EPF). Through this funding mechanism, the EU has allocated €20 million to provide non-lethal equipment and infrastructure to the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC). This support, implemented by the Belgian Ministry of Defence, aims to reinforce the FARDC's efforts to defend the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty. 

Military support and crisis response

During his visit, Head of Service Wagner handed over individual equipment financed by the EPF, including ballistic helmets, protective gloves, and boots, to the 31st Brigade of Fast Reaction at the military base in Kindu. Through the EU's Crisis Response funding, totalling €24 million, FPI also supports mediation, dialogue, and community-level reconciliation in the DRC, particularly in the conflict-affected eastern provinces.

Community-level reconciliation: a key focus

A major part of FPI’s funding in the DRC is channelled through civil society organisations. Head of Service Wagner met with FPI-funded NGO consortia ( NRC and Interpeace) to discuss their work on dialogue and social cohesion at the community level. Despite operating in challenging conditions, these partners are achieving tangible results. The importance of linking local-level initiatives with higher-level peace processes was highlighted, emphasizing the need for a cohesive approach to conflict resolution.

High-Level Discussions and Partnerships

In Kinshasa, Head of Service Wagner engaged with key stakeholders, including EU Member State Ambassadors, government officials, and NGOs, to discuss the EU's support for the DRC's peace process. He also held insightful discussions with the DRC High Representative of the President for Peace Processes Mr. Sumbu Sita Mambu and with the Foreign Minister Ms. Thérèse Wagner, focusing on the latest developments in the conflict and ongoing peace processes. 

Addressing hate speech and disinformation

Head of Service Wagner visited Studio Hirondelle, a local media outlet supported by the EU to address hate speech and disinformation in the DRC. The studio produces fact-checking content, including radio broadcasts and articles, to promote a more informed public discourse. During his visit, Wagner was interviewed on the EU's work in conflict zones for the local radio.

EU's commitment to peace and stability

The mission demonstrated the EU's holistic approach to supporting the DRC, bridging military support, political dialogue, and grassroots peacebuilding. As Wagner emphasized, the visit underscores the EU's long-standing commitment to the DRC and its dedication to promoting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. With its comprehensive support, the EU remains a strategic partner in the DRC's stabilisation efforts.