What role can the international community play to end the crisis in the DRC and promote lasting peace?

### The Call for Action of Cardinal Ambongo: a necessary dialogue in a context of tension

In an increasingly interconnected world, the security crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is indicative of the complex challenges faced by governments and international organizations. The intervention of Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, who called the international community to a more substantial commitment to bring peace to the east of the DRC, throws a necessary light on the geopolitical and humanitarian issues at stake.

#### context of the crisis

The situation in North Kivu is the result of a confluence of historical, economic and political factors. The rebellion of the M23 and the presumed involvement of Rwanda in its activities reinforce a dynamic of violence which has roots deeply anchored in struggles for control of natural resources in the region, especially precious minerals. The DRC is rich in resources, but this wealth has often turned against its people, fueling internal and regional conflicts, like the phenomenon of the “curse of resources”.

#### An obvious double language

Cardinal Ambongo rightly accuses them of a double language. The United Nations and other international actors state principles of human rights and peace support while having economic links interested in the region. Multinational companies exploit the natural riches of the DRC (tin, coltan, gold) without the economic benefits taking advantage of local populations. Statistics reveal that almost 70 % of the population lives below the poverty line, a paradoxical situation when you know that the country is full of resources.

Economic surveillance and responsibility are essential. Economic sanctions can be an effective means of political pressure, but as Cardinal says, solutions based on dialogue, which take into account the interests of all, seem more productive. The experience of other conflicts, such as those of the Balkans or South Africa, shows that dialogue and reconciliation are long processes but necessary to restore peace and stability.

#### A call for social and political action

The cardinal advocates a dialogue including all the stakeholders to find a path to follow. This echoes the insufficient peace efforts which, in the past, have often ignored local voices. Effective peace negotiations must be accompanied by an inclusiveness that incorporates all strata of society, including women, often left out in decision -making processes. The UN report on violence against women in armed conflicts emphasizes that conflicts exacerbate inequalities. By integrating these voices, discussions can become more representative and effective.

### The challenges and opportunities for regional diplomacy

Following the EAC-Sadc summit in Dar-Es-Salam, the leaders of these organizations showed a desire to provide immediate solutions to the crisis. However, the challenges remain numerous. Regional fractios, with their divergent interests, often complicate joint efforts. It is imperative that these states are giving up around a clear consensus, not only to support the DRC but also to promote regional stability. Innovative approaches, such as bilateral agreements or socio-economic development initiatives using the sustainable development model, could strengthen this cooperation.

#### Conclusion: a future anchored in dialogue

The intervention of Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo is more than a simple criticism: it takes the features of a manifesto calling for a re -evaluation of geopolitical priorities in this region of the world. Reconciliation and development must go hand in hand, by placing the human rights and the interests of populations at the center of concerns. In short, the search for peace in the DRC requires concerted efforts, not only governments, but also non -governmental organizations and civil society in order to establish a solid basis for lasting peace, shared responsibility and a promising future For the Congolese.

The international community will have to make courageous choices – to abandon its double language and to truly initiate constructive dialogues, as well as peace in DRC is not just a local question but a global strategic issue. Cardinal’s voice resonates for those who have suffered for too long; It calls for a necessary change in the approach to crises which, if they are complex, can nevertheless be resolved thanks to an authentic and shared commitment.

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