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The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently experiencing multiple overlapping crises, most notably a newly declared Ebola outbreak and escalating armed conflict in the east of the country.

Ebola Outbreak in Kasai Province: On September 4, 2025, DRC health authorities confirmed a new Ebola outbreak in Kasai province. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 28 suspected cases, including 15 deaths, with four healthcare workers among those infected. Laboratory tests conducted on September 3 confirmed cases in the Bulape and Mweka health zones. This is the first Ebola outbreak in Kasai province since 2008. WHO and DRC health authorities have deployed rapid response teams, medical supplies, and have a stockpile of Ebola treatments and vaccines prepared. The outbreak area is remote, complicating access and response efforts[1][3][7].

Conflict in Eastern DRC: Since early 2025, fighting between Congolese forces and the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group has intensified, culminating in M23’s capture of Goma, a major city on the Rwandan border. UN estimates of casualties range from 900 to 2,000. The offensive displaced over 400,000 people, expanding the already severe humanitarian crisis, with over 21 million people needing urgent aid. The DRC government cut diplomatic ties with Rwanda, labeling Rwandan military support a “declaration of war.” Nationwide unrest surged following the December 2023 presidential elections, and the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2773, calling on Rwanda to withdraw its troops and on all parties to agree to a ceasefire. June 2025 saw a U.S.-brokered preliminary peace agreement, which stipulates the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and an end to DRC’s support for other armed groups[2][4][8].

Kinshasa Riots and Political Instability: The fall of Goma and continued conflict led to violent demonstrations in Kinshasa, the capital, on January 28, 2025. Protesters targeted diplomatic missions, including the embassies of France, Rwanda, and Belgium, resulting in vandalism and arson. Markets were looted, and clashes with security forces were reported. These riots reflected widespread anger over perceived international inaction and alleged complicity in the conflict through ongoing support for Rwanda[4].

Humanitarian and Human Rights Situation: The UN released a report on September 5, 2025, raising concerns over war crimes and crimes against humanity in North and South Kivu provinces. The report underscores the growing risks of atrocities and highlights the immense suffering of displaced populations amid restricted humanitarian access[5]. The UN’s stabilization mission, MONUSCO, has been constrained by security and access limitations in M23-controlled areas, leading some Security Council members to press for a revised mandate and strategy[8].

Societal and Political Dynamics: Despite these challenges, the DRC maintains a vibrant civil society and continues to navigate a complex peace process. Citizen engagement is seen as essential for building legitimacy and addressing deep-seated social, political, and environmental challenges. The DRC’s role as a “climate solutions country” is increasingly recognized given its vast forests and mineral resources, though progress demands peace, institutional reform, and socioeconomic development[6].

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