For the first time in over three decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is presiding over the United Nations Security Council this July 2026. The country, currently serving as a non-permanent member for the 2026-2027 term, last held this prestigious role during the 1990-1991 session. Under the banner of “More Peace, More Justice, More Development, and More Multilateralism,” Kinshasa is leveraging this platform to amplify African voices on critical global issues.

Led by Ambassador Zénon Mukongo Ngay, the DRC’s presidency focuses on two key priorities: sustainable natural resource governance and addressing sexual violence in conflict zones. A high-level public debate on July 22, 2026, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi, will examine how illicit mineral exploitation fuels armed conflicts. Additionally, the DRC is prioritizing the fight against sexual violence, a cause championed by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka in early July.

While managing ongoing global crises such as those in the Middle East, Sudan, and Haiti, the DRC is also using its position to highlight the humanitarian toll of the conflict in its eastern region. By maintaining strict neutrality as Security Council president, Kinshasa aims to rally international support for stronger sanctions against armed groups and their external backers, underscoring the urgency of peace and stability in Africa.