Paris, Brussels, 6 June 2024. European civil society organisations working on the Great Lakes region in Africa reiterate the urgent need for the appointment of a European Union Special Representative (EUSR) in the region, with sufficient budgetary provisions for the proper conduct of his/her mandate, to facilitate the dialogue processes between the stakeholders and reaffirm the EU’s willingness to engage actively in favour of peace in the region.
The organisations are concerned about allegations of interference by Rwandan President Paul Kagame in the appointment of the EUSR for the Great Lakes region, and the reluctance of some EU Member States to proceed with the nomination of the candidate resulting from the selection process.
The organisations wish to reiterate the importance of respecting the procedures established by the Council of the European Union, which aim to implement a transparent and impartial selection process, principles which are essential for the appointment of this position. Should these allegations be confirmed, the organisations encourage the EU Member States to resist such conduct, as they could further undermine efforts to foster peace and security in the region.
As the situation in the Great Lakes region is of great concern, especially with regard to the armed conflict in the Eastern part of the DRC and its humanitarian consequences, it is crucial that a EUSR be nominated without further delay and upon the procedure set by the Council. His/her swift appointment and entry into function are indispensable for supporting an inclusive dialogue and de-escalation of the increasing tensions in the region.