Birches Group provides insights into volatile labor markets that are making news headlines, focusing on key developments.
Since early 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been gripped by escalating conflict as the March 23 Movement (M23) armed rebel group seizes critical urban centers, including Goma and Bukavu. This surge in violence has rapidly destabilized the region, creating an exceptionally volatile environment for organizations and their employees. The situation demands immediate and decisive action from organizations operating in Africa’s second-largest country.
To navigate these complex challenges, organizations must adopt resilient and adaptable strategies, potentially including the implementation of special measures to address the unique demands of this crisis. Establishing clear protocols for these measures enhances organizational resilience and operational continuity, even in the face of extreme adversity.
The M23’s renewed offensive
The intensifying crisis in the DRC is rooted in the dramatic resurgence of the M23. The rebels, the most prominent of over 100 armed groups vying for dominance in the mineral-rich east, reignited their offensive after a period of relative dormancy, exploiting existing regional tensions and vulnerabilities.
This resurgence has demonstrated a level of organization and military capability that caught both regional and international observers off guard. Recent intelligence reports suggest advanced weaponry and sophisticated logistical support, potentially indicating external backing and fueling regional tensions.
Rapid territorial gains
Over the past several weeks, the M23 expanded its territorial holdings in eastern DRC. In late January 2025, they occupied Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu and an economic and humanitarian center. This resulted in the large-scale displacement of civilians. In mid-February 2025, the crisis when the M23 took possession of Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu, further extending their area of control. The rebel group has threatened to continue their offensive toward Kinshasa, the DRC’s capital.
The Congolese government, backed by regional and international forces, is struggling to contain the M23’s advances. Protests in Kinshasa have seen demonstrators demanding immediate government action and expressing anger at the international community’s perceived inaction.
Humanitarian crisis
The fall of both cities has caused massive displacement, straining humanitarian resources. Millions have fled, seeking refuge in overcrowded camps. The insecurity has forced most organizations to suspend operations, leaving families without essential supplies.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reports that the escalation of violence since January 2025 has pushed the number of internally displaced persons to a record high of 6.4 million, with over 90,000 seeking refuge in neighboring countries.
These figures underscore the immense human cost of the conflict, with hundreds of thousands of individuals and families uprooted from their homes, often multiple times, seeking safety and necessities.
Regional instability
The implications of this conflict extend far beyond the DRC’s borders. The M23’s resurgence has destabilized the region, exacerbating existing tensions between neighboring states. Allegations of Rwanda’s support for the M23 remain a central point of contention.
Efforts to find a peaceful resolution have included direct talks between the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda in Doha, Qatar, on March 18, 2025. However, parallel peace negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23 in Luanda, Angola, were called off, with the M23 citing European Union sanctions as a primary reason.
Impact on organizations and employees
Beyond security threats, the conflict ignited a humanitarian crisis, compounding operational challenges. The workforce is devastated, with disrupted services, fear, and the threat of violence.
- Mass displacement. The UNHCR reports extensive displacement, with communities fleeing to overcrowded camps and neighboring regions.
- Economic disruption and market instability. International financial institutions report severe disruption of economic activity, impacting various sectors, including the crucial mining industry.
- Heightened security risks. Increased kidnappings, looting, and armed robberies, along with heightened security presence and checkpoints, pose significant risks.
The situation in eastern DRC remains dire and unpredictable, with concerns about the a wider regional war. UNHCR Chief Volker Türk warned of potentially catastrophic consequences, “If nothing is done, the worst may be yet to come, for the people of the eastern DRC, but also beyond the country’s borders.”
The necessity of a Special Measures Policy
Operating in volatile labor markets like the DRC, with its displacement, economic disruption, and security, requires more than standard human resources (HR) policies and procedures. Traditional HR policies often prove inadequate in the face of such instability, demanding a proactive and resilient approach. A comprehensive Special Measures Policy becomes essential.
A Special Measures Policy assists managers and supports staff during crises like civil unrest. It defines clear triggers and immediate responses to protect employees and ensure business continuity while the organization adapts to changing labor market conditions in the following months.
Crisis HR: The Birches Group advantage
The current situation in the DRC requires a strategic approach to workforce management. Organizations must prioritize HR policies that mitigate risk and ensure operational continuity.
Birches Group provides specialized expertise in designing Special Measures Policies tailored to high-risk environments. We help organizations develop policies that fit local conditions while aligning with corporate objectives.
For organizations committed to maintaining operational resilience and safeguarding their workforce in the DRC, strategic HR planning is essential. Birches Group offers the expertise and resources necessary to navigate these challenges effectively. Book a strategy call with us today.
