Towards Humanization of Intelligence and Security Services in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Since the advent of President Tshisekedi’s administration, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has begun a process of humanising its intelligence and security services intelligence. Courts and tribunals are increasingly receiving complaints from individuals about ill-treatment by the security services. Despite this clearly stated desire for humanisation, revision of the law on security services remains slow. This chapter primarily argues that, just like in the past, the intelligence services remain a tool for surveillance and repression of citizens and political opponents. It starts by examining the historical role of the intelligence and security services in the Congo. Thereafter, it examines the attempt to reform the contemporary intelligence and security services in the Congo. It then examines the intelligence and security governance structure, the mandates, the broad-based involvement of communities, as well as the legal frameworks underlying the humanization process. The chapter largely adopts a qualitative methodological posture, primarily relying on primary and secondary sources.