20100601
BBC

he UN Security Council has voted to authorise the withdrawal of up to 2,000 peacekeepers from the Democratic Republic of Congo by 30 June.

However, it has delayed a decision on the full withdrawal of its 20,500-strong force, as sought by Congolese President Joseph Kabila, to next year.

The 15-member body unanimously adopted a resolution to withdraw the troops "where the security situation permits".

It also decided to retain a UN presence in DR Congo until 30 June 2011.

The force, known as Monuc, will be renamed UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in DR Congo - or Monusco - from 1 July.

The resolution allows it to comprise up to 19,815 military personnel, 760 military observers, 391 police personnel and 1,050 personnel of formed police units.
Sexual violence

UN troops have had a mixed record in DR Congo, with accusations of sex abuse, gold smuggling and running from rebels.