The ongoing war in eastern Congo does not only affect the people of the DRC; it has a global impact. The world depends on the resources that come from Congo, yet it has largely ignored the conflict that ensures these resources remain under the control of armed groups. The situation in the DRC is a stark reminder of the darker side of globalisation: that the demand for cheap and abundant raw materials can fuel conflict and suffering in the very regions that supply them.
Investing in peace in the DRC is an investment in global stability. Here’s why:
- Resource Supply Security: The DRC’s resources are critical to the global supply chain. As the demand for minerals like cobalt grows due to the rise of electric vehicles and other technologies, the world cannot afford to have these resources controlled by unstable, violent forces. Peace in the DRC would help secure the long-term, sustainable extraction of these vital materials.
- Economic Stability: A peaceful DRC could become one of Africa’s economic powerhouses. With the right investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and governance, the DRC could lift millions out of poverty, benefiting both its people and the international community. Prosperity in Congo could stimulate economic growth across Central Africa and beyond.
- Human Rights and Humanitarian Crisis: The current situation in the east of the DRC is a humanitarian catastrophe. Millions of people live in camps for internally displaced persons, without access to basic services. By investing in peace, the international community would help alleviate one of the world’s most prolonged human rights crises, improving the lives of millions and fulfilling its moral obligation to protect vulnerable populations.
- Regional Stability: The conflict in eastern Congo also destabilises the entire Great Lakes region of Africa. Neighbouring countries such as Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi are often drawn into the conflict, with the risk of regional spillover. By addressing the root causes of the conflict in the DRC, the global community could contribute to broader regional peace and stability.
The Way Forward
Achieving peace in the DRC is no simple task, but it is crucial for both the country and the world at large. The international community must prioritise peacebuilding efforts in the region, focusing not just on military interventions but also on sustainable development, good governance, and the empowerment of local communities. Multinational corporations that rely on Congo’s resources should be held accountable for ensuring their supply chains are free from violence and exploitation, investing in fair trade practices that benefit the Congolese people.
The world has a vested interest in the peace and prosperity of the DRC. The time has come to move beyond short-term solutions and to invest in a long-lasting peace that will benefit everyone. By doing so, the global community can help end the cycle of violence in the east of Congo, allowing the country to unlock its full potential and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world.
