**Title: Towards a Transformation of EU-Rwanda Relations: Analysis of the Crisis in North Kivu**
31 January 2025 marks a turning point in relations between Europe and Rwanda, following an emergency session convened by the European Parliament to address the dramatic humanitarian and security impact in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). President Roberta Metsola has firmly stated that the European Union (EU) cannot remain passive as the situation continues to deteriorate, exacerbated by Rwanda’s reduced involvement alongside the M23.
### A Response to the Humanitarian Situation
In light of revelations of atrocities caused by the conflict, including mass sexual violence, MEPs are considering significant sanctions against Paul Kagame’s regime. While the proposed sanctions are an urgent response, they also open the way for a deeper reflection on the balance of international relations, where economic interests can sometimes trump human rights.
The suspension of the EU-Rwanda Memorandum of Cooperation, signed in February 2024, could have massive repercussions for Kigali, traditionally seen as a strategic partner for the EU. Indeed, it is crucial to consider how much this decision could weigh on the Rwandan economy, which relies heavily on foreign aid and investment. In 2022, the EU was among the largest donors, contributing 27% to the national budget. Such a rupture could have disastrous consequences for a country already struggling with growing economic challenges.
### Sports and Economic Issues
Furthermore, the impact of the sanctions envisaged on the organisation of international sports competitions in Rwanda, notably Formula 1, raises questions about the role of sport in diplomatic relations. Could the EU consider using sporting events as a tool for diplomatic pressure, thus marking a new chapter in the way nations and international organisations perceive sport? The economic repercussions resulting from the cancellation of such events could be significant, both in terms of fiscal revenues and the international image that Rwanda is trying to shape.
### An Urgent Humanitarian Strategy
In Goma, the situation is alarming. The head of MONUSCO, Bintu Keita, highlighted the disastrous limits of current capacities to protect the population. This observation leads us to reflect on the role of international peace missions, often criticised for their ineffectiveness in the face of large-scale conflicts. An analysis of statistics shows that, since the deployment of MONUSCO in 1999, sexual and gender-based violence has not only persisted, but has intensified in times of crisis.. This phenomenon underlines the urgency of a reassessment of the operational strategy of humanitarian and military organisations on the ground.
### The Domino Effect of Sanctions
The sanctions envisaged by the EU will not be without collateral consequences. A breakdown in cooperation could exacerbate tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, with implications for regional stability. Given Rwanda’s economic dependence on mineral exports, particularly coltan and gold, a freeze in relations with the EU could push Kigali to move closer to other partners. This behaviour could strengthen ties with countries that share less human rights-oriented visions, shaping a new geopolitical landscape.
### Conclusion: A Fragile Balance
The situation in North Kivu represents more than just a regional security issue; It reflects the complex challenges of the modern world, where the struggle for resources, humanitarian issues and geopolitical power relations are intertwined. The actions taken by the EU in the coming days will not only determine the fate of Rwanda and the DRC, but also the future of international cooperation on security and human rights.
It is imperative that the EU considers all the implications of its decisions. The use of the lever of sanctions must be carefully weighed against the need for rapid and effective humanitarian action. Ultimately, the international community must recognise that crises like the one in North Kivu require not only immediate but also lasting solutions, marked by a willingness to dialogue, cooperation and a genuine commitment to human rights.