ESPER 2 Launched to Advance Local Security Governance in Eastern DRC

VNG International and Cordaid have launched the second phase of the ESPER programme (Ensemble pour la Sécurité et la Paix à l’est de la RDC). With support from the Government of the Netherlands, and in line with Congolese decentralisation, ESPER 2 strengthens local governance in addressing security challenges that affect daily life in communities across Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Strengthening local security committees

The programme builds on the legal framework for extended local security committees (Comités Locaux de Sécurité Élargis, CLSE). These committees gather local administrators/mayors, security services and civil society to implement action plans addressing community-level security problems.

By ensuring inclusive participation, particularly of women, youth and vulnerable groups, the CLSEs foster trust, cooperation, social cohesion and more effective responses to security risks. Operating from provincial to village level, the committees are tasked with identifying threats, preventing violence, coordinating rapid responses and protecting civilians.

Focus on sustainability

Running until June 2026, ESPER 2 focuses on making these efforts sustainable. Key priorities include:

• securing strong political engagement at provincial and national levels;
• transferring skills, tools, and responsibilities to Congolese institutions;
• lobbying for transparent disbursement of state budgets for CLSE implementation.

By investing in long-term structures and accountability, the programme aims to ensure that communities and authorities can continue managing local security challenges beyond international support.

Expanding impact across the country

A further ambition of ESPER 2 is to mobilise additional technical and financial partners so that lessons learned in the provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu can be replicated across the country. In doing so, the programme contributes to broader stability and strengthens the link between citizens and the state.

More information

• The Congolese government published a practical guide (pdf, 7.6 MB, in French) with 29 questions and answers on the security governance framework, including CLSE (Décret N°22/44).
• Or visit our project page: ESPER 2 Peace and Security program in East DRC