**The dynamics of hate speech in the DRC: towards a multi-stakeholder solution for peace?**
The detailed report of the NGO Action citoyenne de lutte contre les discours de haine en République Démocratique du Congo (ACLDH) highlights a complex problem that goes beyond the traditional framework of armed conflicts. Far from being a simple territorial or ethnic war, the conflicts in the DRC and Rwanda have repercussions on civil societies, with a devastating impact on social peace. The ACLDH press release, dated February 1, pushes us to consider the consequences of hate speech, rampant disinformation, and a rise in xenophobia that have repercussions on human beings and countries already tested by years of violence.
### Hate speech: an old but still current scourge
Recent history reminds us that hate speech has never been foreign to conflicts. In this sense, it is essential to observe international precedents, such as the events in Rwanda in 1994 or the outline of ethnic tensions in the former Yugoslavia. These conflicts, of unprecedented violence, often began with a climate of hatred distilled by propaganda. By analyzing these events, we realize that the real challenge lies in deconstructing this discourse to build bridges rather than walls. The DRC, holding a heavy colonial legacy and multiple conflicts, is now at a crossroads where the implementation of dialogue and reconciliation initiatives is becoming essential.
### Call for proactivity: a collective response expected
The ACLDH engages not only the Congolese and Rwandan governments, but also the international community. This call for “proactivity” constitutes a step forward in the systemic understanding of conflicts, emphasizing that crisis resolution does not only depend on localized political will, but on a framework conducive to exchange and negotiation.
The two heads of state, Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame, are thus called upon to strengthen the dialogue mechanisms established at the Luanda and Nairobi summits. In this regard, weak political will appears to be a major obstacle to conflict resolution. The targeted recommendations of the ACLDH aim for a collaborative approach, but they also highlight the need for a sincere willingness of leaders to think beyond their immediate national interests.
### A multi-stakeholder framework for peace
The ACLDH suggests convening a multi-stakeholder forum, including various stakeholders in Congolese society. What is often overlooked is the potential contribution of civil society organizations as agents of change and influence. These organizations often have the advantage of a direct connection with local communities, a deep knowledge of socio-political issues and, most importantly, a legitimacy that is essential to work towards reconciliation.
By supporting the organization of such a forum, MONUSCO could play a crucial role in strengthening a vigorous and united civil society. This could fuel discussions on key issues such as natural resource management, social justice, and the development of inclusive narratives that transcend ethnic and political divides.
### A plea for international action
The ACLDH also calls for the attention of major international bodies, such as the UN Security Council, the European Union and the African Union, not to mention sub-regional organizations such as the EAC and SADC. These actors play a fundamental role in establishing and supporting platforms for dialogue and mediation. Strengthened international cooperation could not only facilitate the de-escalation of tensions, but also provide logistical and financial support for the implementation of local peace initiatives.
### Conclusion
The crisis in the DRC and Rwanda exposes the need for an innovative approach to the escalation of violence. Combating hate speech is not only a political issue but also a social and ethical one. By opening channels for dialogue and creating spaces for participation, it is possible to reconfigure the narrative of the conflict, while spitting in the face of disinformation and xenophobia. Generating positive dynamics is a collective challenge for all stakeholders; it is the only viable path to hope for real appeasement. The ACLDH offers a vision, that of an investment in peace that could not only stabilize the region, but also initiate a transition to a harmonious and prosperous future.