France and Belgium have jointly called on President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo to initiate inclusive peace talks as the most viable path toward resolving the country’s long-standing internal conflicts. The appeal reflects growing international concern over persistent violence, political fragmentation and the worsening humanitarian situation, particularly in eastern DR Congo.
On January 19, 2026, France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs issued a statement emphasizing that Congolese citizens from all backgrounds and political affiliations must overcome divisions and engage in dialogue to rebuild their nation. Paris stressed that sustainable peace cannot be achieved through military solutions alone and urged national reconciliation as a foundation for long-term stability.
French authorities explained that their position aligns with a broader peace initiative proposed by the Catholic Church and the Anglican Church. This initiative encourages dialogue between the Congolese government and all domestic actors, including armed and political groups opposed to the current administration, notably the AFC/M23 coalition. France considers the religious-led initiative an important framework capable of fostering trust in a deeply polarized political environment.
Belgium has echoed this call through direct diplomatic engagement. King Philippe of Belgium met President Tshisekedi in Davos, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, where the two leaders discussed security challenges in eastern DR Congo and the broader prospects for peace. The meeting underscored Belgium’s continued involvement in Congolese affairs, shaped by historical ties and long-standing diplomatic relations.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot later clarified that King Philippe personally encouraged President Tshisekedi to organize inclusive peace talks that bring together Congolese stakeholders without exclusion. According to Prévot, Belgium reaffirmed its full support for a peaceful resolution that respects DR Congo’s sovereignty while addressing the underlying causes of instability.
“We reiterated our support for resolving the crisis in eastern DR Congo through peaceful means, while respecting territorial integrity and encouraging inclusive national dialogue,” Prévot stated. He emphasized that genuine peace requires open discussions that reflect the diversity of Congolese society.
The Catholic and Anglican churches have spent over a year preparing a comprehensive peace process designed to bring Congolese actors together. Church leaders have consulted widely, engaging political figures, civil society organizations, regional representatives and international partners. Their goal has been to gather perspectives that could contribute to a credible and inclusive roadmap toward national reconciliation.
According to the churches, lasting peace in DR Congo depends on addressing structural problems that have plagued the country since independence in 1960. These include governance failures, chronic insecurity, economic inequality and deep-rooted social divisions. The religious institutions argue that ignoring these historical grievances risks perpetuating cycles of violence regardless of military victories on the battlefield.
Church leaders believe that inclusive dialogue offers a rare opportunity to rebuild national cohesion and restore public trust in state institutions. They argue that dialogue does not legitimize armed rebellion but rather acknowledges the complexity of Congolese society and the necessity of political solutions.
Despite international and religious support for this initiative, the Congolese government has so far distanced itself from the process. Authorities have criticized the Catholic and Anglican churches for what they describe as a failure to explicitly condemn the actions of the AFC/M23 coalition. Officials argue that engaging in talks under such conditions risks rewarding armed groups and undermining state authority.
Instead, the government has signaled its intention to pursue an alternative dialogue process under its own direction. Critics, however, warn that government-led initiatives without broad participation risk repeating past failures, where peace talks excluded key actors and ultimately collapsed.
France and Belgium’s intervention highlights growing impatience among international partners who view inclusive dialogue as essential to preventing further destabilization. Both countries have emphasized that continued fragmentation could have serious regional consequences, particularly as violence in eastern DR Congo affects neighboring states and fuels humanitarian crises.
Eastern DR Congo remains one of Africa’s most volatile regions, with recurring clashes between armed groups, government forces and community militias. Millions of civilians have been displaced, and access to basic services remains limited in many areas. International observers fear that without a comprehensive political settlement, the cycle of conflict will persist indefinitely.
The call for inclusive dialogue also reflects lessons drawn from previous peace efforts across Africa, where exclusionary processes often failed to deliver lasting results. Diplomats argue that while dialogue is politically sensitive, it offers a more sustainable alternative to prolonged military confrontation.
For President Tshisekedi, the pressure presents a difficult political calculation. Engaging in broad talks could open space for compromise but also expose his administration to criticism from supporters who favor a hard-line stance against armed groups. Nevertheless, international partners believe leadership at this moment could define his legacy.
France and Belgium maintain that their appeal does not undermine DR Congo’s sovereignty but seeks to support a Congolese-led process capable of addressing the country’s complex challenges. They argue that peace imposed through force alone has repeatedly failed, while inclusive dialogue remains the most promising route toward stability.
As discussions continue behind the scenes, the coming months may prove decisive. Whether President Tshisekedi chooses to embrace inclusive negotiations or pursue a government-controlled alternative will shape the future of DR Congo’s peace efforts. For millions of Congolese affected by decades of conflict, the hope remains that dialogue, reconciliation and genuine political reform can finally offer a durable path forward.
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