Confronting Terror, Protecting Civilians in DRC

The situation in eastern Congo is dire, but not yet hopeless. There are concrete steps the international community can take that will save lives and stop the spread of Islamic extremist terror.

Strengthen Counterterrorism Operations

As Congolese military forces have been stretched thin, enhanced counterterrorism operations are urgently needed to confront the ADF. Deploying specialized international military advisors to support Congolese forces with intelligence sharing, strategic surveillance, and tactical training can help close the technical gaps that allow the ADF to operate freely. The U.S. Africa Command must elevate the ADF as a top counterterrorism priority in Central Africa to ensure sustained attention and resource provision, in so recognizing these reinforcements as necessary to the survival of Christians.

Establish Protected Humanitarian Corridors

With more than 60% of affected communities cut off from aid, securing safely routed humanitarian assistance is crucial to relieve the worsening famine and disease outbreaks. United Nations-mandated corridors, protected by armed escorts, would ensure relief convoys with food, water, and medicine reach those communities otherwise cut off by violence. Immediate emergency funding for trusted non-profit partners is pivotal to restoring lifesaving assistance and stabilizing vulnerable populations.

Preserve Education in Crisis

This ongoing crisis has leveled the DRC’s educational infrastructure, shuttering nearly two-thirds of schools in conflict areas. Rapid deployment of mobile classrooms and radio-based learning, in tandem with trauma-informed teaching, can keep children learning and protected, preventing the loss of a generation. Delivered in partnership with local organizations, this approach ensures that displaced children have access to the protective anchors of education and mental health assistance, even amidst enduring conflict. Sustained investment in emergency education preserves learning, strengthens community resilience as a shield against radicalization, and is a lifeline for a generation at risk of being lost to violence.

These solutions will both ease suffering in the short term and help rebuild resilient communities capable of standing strong in their Christian faith and against extremism.