Eastern Congo’s M23 conflict
International Conflicts & Security
Last updated
The big picture
The M23 rebellion in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is both an internal armed conflict and a regional crisis involving neighboring Rwanda. Rebel forces and their Congo River Alliance partners control substantial areas of North and South Kivu, including territory taken in a rapid 2025 offensive. Peace efforts operate on more than one track: Congo negotiates with the rebels, while outside mediators also address relations between Congo and Rwanda. That makes a signed commitment only one step toward security on the ground. Local fighting, armed groups and contested territory continue to endanger civilians even when national leaders or international delegations announce progress. The important test is whether agreements change those conditions.
Where things stand
African Union mediators met rebel leaders in early October and urged compliance with the Doha commitments. Ceasefire monitoring teams and detainee releases represent limited progress, but clashes have continued. The latest verified accounts describe an unfinished peace process, not a durable end to the conflict.
Key facts
- A July 2025 declaration committed Congo and AFC/M23 to a ceasefire and further negotiations.
- Direct talks with rebels and Congo–Rwanda diplomacy address related but different parts of the conflict.
- Reported territorial gains can remain disputed; claims by combatants are not independent confirmation.
How we got here
African Union facilitators meet the rebel alliance in Goma.
Mediators call for continued engagement while fighting persists.
What happens next
No further event was confirmed at the last update.
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