MONUSCO in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and its involvement on behalf of the internally displaced persons

The internal displacement crisis in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of the world's most complex humanitarian challenges. This study assesses the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) and its efforts to address this issue, focusing on its strategies and external influencing factors. Under the research question, “How have MONUSCO’s strategies and external factors influenced its effectiveness in addressing IDP challenges in Eastern DRC?” The study’s hypothesis suggests that MONUSCO’s Specific operations, such as the deployment of rapid reaction forces, community engagement initiatives, and resource allocations, along with external factors, including regional conflicts, international policies, and local political dynamics, had a substantial significant impact on MONUSCO’s ability to reduce displacement and provide humanitarian assistance to IDPs in the Eastern Republic of Congo. Using literature review, document analysis, and data triangulation, the study finds that MONUSCO’s rapid reaction forces offer essential security, but their long-term impact is limited by regional instability. Community engagement improves relations but faces cultural and security challenges. Resource allocations are crucial yet often insufficient due to logistical issues and vast needs. External factors, especially regional conflicts, and local political dynamics, further hinder MONUSCO’s efforts by creating instability and obstructing aid distribution. This study contributes to the field of International Relations by assessing MONUSCO’s involvement through Liberal Institutionalism, emphasizing the role of international institutions in global peacekeeping. It highlights the need for adaptive strategies and sustained international support to manage such complex crises effectively, offering insights for future peacekeeping missions on integrating security, humanitarian aid, and political solutions for sustainable peace and stability.