“Elusive peace” in Eastern DRC: Is negotiation still an option and what role can local and international actors play?

Tensions between Kigali and Kinshasa over the conflict in eastern DRC involving M23 rebels and other armed militia groups operating in the region have escalated following failed peace talks in December 2024. On 26 January 2025, M23 rebels seized control of Goma, displacing thousands and killing hundreds. Aid organizations have warned of a looming humanitarian crisis. In response, regional blocs, EAC and SADC held Extraordinary Summits to de-escalate tensions and negotiate a path to peace. EAC’s communique issued proposed the possibility of a joint EAC-SADC summit to deliberate a way forward. Previous high-level mediation efforts have failed to put an end to the conflict. What role can international actors, including the AU, UN, EU, US and others play in supporting peace efforts in the region?