The UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) took over from a previous UN peacekeeping mission on July 1st 2010. It is mandated to have a maximum of 19,815 military personnel, 760 military observers, 391 police personnel, and 1,050 members of formed police units. It is authorized to protect civilians, humanitarian personnel, and human rights defenders. In addition MONUSCO helps to implement programs to support the government in Kinshasa strengthen military capacity, reform the police, and consolidate state power.

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On March 28, 2013 the Security Council created a new "Intervention Brigade" in response to  M23 and escalating conflict in the East. The Intervention Brigade  would be allowed to use force in offensive means. Turning peacekeeping into peace enforcement. There has been criticism or concern that the new brigade will, in the end, increase violence in the DRC.

 

 

MONUSCO needs continued support from the international community in order to continue its work. Also by alining itself with FARDC and now with the intervention brigade it has lost its impartiality. The army has committed many atrocities and the government is not trusted, this pro government stance can harm MONUCSO's image with local population. MONUSCO does criticize the army for its rape and looting.