Key Developments
On 24 May 2026, the HM Government published an International Contact Group statement on eastern DRC, urging adherence to ceasefires, protection of civilians, and urgent action on the Ebola-driven humanitarian crisis.
Key Statistics
- 1 active Ebola outbreak referenced by the International Contact Group
- €15 million in additional EU humanitarian assistance allocated for Ebola response and preparedness
- €101.9 million in total EU humanitarian support linked to Ebola response and preparedness, per the European Commission
- €73.7 million invested by the EU in health emergency response capacities, per historical context
- €7.4 million earmarked by the EU for clinical trial readiness, per historical context
Main Body
On 24 May 2026, the HM Government published a statement from the International Contact Group for the Great Lakes expressing concern over ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and its effect on regional stability. The statement supported international peace efforts, urged all parties to adhere to ceasefire agreements, called for the protection of civilians, and highlighted the urgency of addressing a worsening humanitarian situation linked to an Ebola outbreak.
The statement underscored priorities for de-escalation and civilian safety, and it framed the Ebola outbreak as a pressing humanitarian factor requiring concerted international support, according to the HM Government. In parallel, on 22 May 2026, the European Commission allocated an additional €15 million in humanitarian assistance for Ebola response and preparedness in the DRC and Uganda.
The European Commission also cited €101.9 million in total humanitarian support related to Ebola response and preparedness, alongside €73.7 million invested for health emergencies and €7.4 million for clinical trial readiness. These figures indicated ongoing European support to emergency operations and preparedness measures in the region.
The ICG’s appeal carried regional significance as public health and security dynamics overlapped. On 24 May 2026, NPR reported that Ebola cases were rising in eastern DRC, infections had crossed into Uganda, and officials warned of broader regional risk amid mistrust. The same day, AP News noted that aid cuts, rebel attacks, and community anger were complicating response operations. Together, these conditions heightened the relevance of the ICG’s call for ceasefire adherence and civilian protection.
