In 2006, the Congolese people defied widespread scepticism to cast their ballots in one of Africa's most historic elections. Their vote hopefully ends more than 40 years of dictatorship, misrule, and civil war. The United Nations peacekeeping force in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) has supported the Congolese government in the political transition process and, through its military presence, restored stability to large parts of the country. MONUC's mandate, which was due to expire on 15 February, has been extended until April.

Oxfam is urging the 15 member states of the UN Security Council to ensure that MONUC's current strength is maintained, until the Congolese security forces stop posing a threat to their own populations and instead begin providing security and protection.

They should also assure the new Congolese government of MONUC's full support to the newly-created democratic processes and institutions, and the protection and promotion of human rights.

Oxfam's new paper, A Fragile Future, looks at these recommendations in more detail.