Title: Climate justice: forced evictions linked to mining in DR Congo
Introduction :
The ecological transition to electric vehicles has led to a dramatic increase in demand for cobalt and copper, essential for the production of rechargeable batteries. However, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), this frantic quest for these rare metals has had dramatic consequences for local populations. Amnesty International denounces in its latest report the forced evictions of hundreds of residents in the province of Lualaba, particularly in the mining town of Kolwezi, in the name of industrial mining. We interviewed Candy Ofime, researcher and co-author of the study, to find out more about this topic.
Explanations on forced evictions and their consequences:
According to Candy Ofime, forced evictions are the result of a multiple violation of human rights such as the right to housing, access to health and decent working conditions. The DRC is the world’s largest producer of cobalt and the seventh largest producer of copper, leading to intensive exploitation of the Lualaba region. The situation is particularly alarming in Kolwezi, where entire avenues have been cleared over the past decade to make way for mines, leaving residents homeless and under constant threat of further eviction.
Forced evictions in the Kolwezi region:
The study is based on four mining projects in Kolwezi and its surroundings. In three of these localities, forced evictions were observed, without any adequate legal protection for the inhabitants. For example, in the neighborhood managed by the Commus company (China/DRC), a first wave of evictions took place in 2016, without prior dialogue and with insufficient compensation. Since then, residents have lived in constant fear of being evicted, without having access to safe or preserved areas.
The repercussions of forced evictions on residents and farmers:
Forced evictions have a devastating impact on local communities. The inhabitants find themselves without shelter or means of subsistence, in precarious living conditions. Additionally, cultivators are also affected, as agricultural land is often seized to allow mining expansion. The socio-economic and environmental consequences of these evictions are enormous and highlight the importance of climate justice in the transition to a green economy.
The need for a just transition that respects human rights:
Amnesty International emphasizes in its report that climate justice requires a just transition, which must not lead to further human rights violations. It is therefore crucial that governments and companies commit to respecting the rights of local people during mining. Candy Ofime calls on the Congolese state to immediately impose a moratorium on mining-related evictions and put in place protection measures for affected communities.
Conclusion :
Forced evictions linked to mining in DR Congo raise major concerns in terms of climate justice and respect for human rights. It is essential that the transition to renewable energy takes place in a fair and equitable manner, paying particular attention to local populations. Governments and companies must take responsibility to ensure mining respects human rights and the environment, and to provide alternative housing and livelihoods to impacted populations. Only an approach respectful of human rights can guarantee a truly sustainable ecological transition.
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