** Crisis in the Congo: a new look at European diplomacy and its historical impact **
On March 7, in Kinshasa, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi in Kinshasa received a delegation of European deputies led by Thierry Mariani. What may seem to be a conventional diplomatic encounter, in reality is part of a much broader context of geopolitical tensions and struggles for raw materials in Central Africa. The exchange between the Congolese president and these European representatives opens not only the way to discussions on the crisis in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), but also raises crucial questions about colonial history which still shapes modern relations between Africa and Europe.
** A painful past: the echo of colonization **
To understand the seriousness of the current situation, it is essential to examine the historical consequences of colonization on the political and economic dynamics of the DRC. Since the time when the country was under the personal yoke of King Leopold II of Belgium, it has been exploited for its natural resources. This exploitation, which has led to millions of loss of life, has caused a culture of distrust of Western countries which, although formally emancipated, continue to influence the country’s political and economic landscape.
The refocusing of European aid in the face of the alleged assault of Rwanda against the DRC are tinged with this painful past. Thierry Mariani highlighted the memorandum of understanding between the European Union and Rwanda on the supply of strategic ores, criticizing its lack of traceability. This position echoes the modern discourse according to which the Western powers must be accountable for their historical role in the creation of current disorders. If the DRC appears once again as a battlefield for the interests of external powers, it is imperative that European countries become aware of their colonial heritage and the need to forge more transparent and respectful relationships.
** A diplomacy to claim: the voice of the EU in crisis **
The meeting between Tshisekedi and MEPs cannot be considered in isolation. It is part of a broader diplomatic dynamic that includes countries like the United States, Germany, Canada and the United Kingdom, which have already taken measures to sanction Rwanda because of its alleged involvement in the Congolese conflict. It is interesting to note that the EU, an entity often perceived as extensive in its humanitarian actions, is slow to act in this file. This inertia could be interpreted not only as a strategic omission, but also as a reflection of the historical relations suspended between Europe and Africa, where one seeks to keep its economic influence and the other aspires to full sovereignty.
A comparative analysis of the responses from different countries reveals that the timid EU position strongly contrasts with the audacity of other nations. If we consider that the DRC has around 70% of world cobalt reserves, an essential metal for modern technologies, the role of Europe becomes all the more complex. The question of the traceability of minerals, raised by Mariani, is crucial. What solutions can we consider to establish a verifiable system that respects human rights while providing a supply of strategic resources? Investments in blockchain technology could serve as a way to guarantee traceability, but this requires a solid commitment from European countries to a deeper reform of their trade relations.
** A community -based voice: Congolese reaction **
Jean-Claude Tshilumbayi, 1st vice-president of the National Assembly, described these European deputies as “friends from the Congo”. This assertion highlights the importance of international support for the country, while exposing a double reality: the need to protect Congolese sovereignty while being open to international collaboration. The support of European parliaments to Congolese demonstrations in Brussels and Paris represents a striking example of transnational solidarity. It is also a testimony to this Congolese ability to make their voices heard on the international scene.
The current tension around minerals and aid policies reveals a dynamic of interdependence, where decisions taken in Brussels can either fuel the crisis, or promote sustainable development in the region. In this sense, the question is not simply whether the sanctions will be taken against Rwanda, but if the EU will be able to adopt a model of cooperation which favors human before economic supply.
** Conclusion: A new chapter in European diplomacy? **
Could the Kinshasa meeting mark the start of a new era in relations between the EU and the DRC? While the world faces growing challenges linked to the origin of resources, their environmental impacts, and human rights management, it is crucial that European actors play a more proactive and responsible role. This could mean revisiting the traditional aid model, and adopting an approach that recognizes the country and its citizens as equal partners, not as passive beneficiaries.
The commitment of a diplomacy aware of its historical weight could thus transform the current period of crisis into an opportunity for change, both for the DRC and for Europe. The path to the establishment of fair and sustainable relationships requires a collective voice, that of a continent which has crossed history by the tears of those which he has long neglected, but which today aspires to a future of shared dignity and common prosperity.