### towards fragile reconciliation: negotiations between the DRC and the M23 under the eye of the international community
The recent announcement of upcoming talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebel movement, under the aegis of João Lourenço, the Angolan president, opens a new page in a chapter already heavy with tensions and conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This approach, favorable to a relaxation of relationships, is however in a context marked by nourished doubts, both on the Congolese side and the rebel group, as for the viability of this initiative. An in-depth analysis of the underlying issues and potential repercussions immerses us in the meanders of a region which, for decades, has an odil between hope and disillusionment.
###Ove a background and form conflict
The hostilities between the DRC and the M23, accused of being supported by Rwanda, are part of a historic cycle of conflicts in Central Africa. These tensions are often fueled by deep territorial and economic issues, involving control of natural resources that abound in this region, such as the Coltan and diamonds. In this sense, entering direct negotiations could be perceived as an implicit recognition of the complexities that go beyond the armed conflict. The successor of Tshisekedi, whatever it is, could find in negotiation the key to a more peaceful reign, but it will depend on its ability to navigate divergent interests.
### Congolese position: refusal and reflection
The DRC’s intransigence to negotiate directly with the M23, described as “attacker” by President Tshisekedi, must be understood in a logic of national sovereignty. Nevertheless, this refusal of dialogue has consequences. The DRC could miss an opportunity to put an end to repeated violence that strikes the east of the country. If we analyze the figures provided by international organizations, more than 5 million people have been moved because of armed conflicts in Congolese territory for two decades. Discussions in Luanda could thus appear not as a capitulation, but rather as a commitment to a lasting resolution with serious humanitarian crises.
### M23 discomfort: a reflection on the consequences
On the M23 side, the request for dialogue with the government takes on a broader meaning. The movement has learned the lessons of the past, and the ambiguous position of certain actors in Rwanda suggests that they may no longer have the same unwavering support as before. The human dimension of these rebels, often neglected in the dominant discourse, deserves to be highlighted. The members of the M23 also have links with local communities and position themselves as protectors of their interests in the face of a state perceived as distant and often incompetent. This dualism reminds us that non -state actors can sometimes be taken in the vice between their political ambitions and the realities experienced by the population.
### towards a redefinition of the negotiation framework
The masterful intervention of the international community, symbolized by resolution 2773 of the United Nations Security Council, should act as a catalyst to supervise these negotiations. The promotion of this resolution by the Congolese government indicates a desire not to have to give up its prerogatives while facilitating a diplomatic approach. But this dynamic could come up against the principle of self -determination of the Congolese people, which is wary of external interventions often perceived as new forms of neocolonialism.
### economic economic repercussions: an opportunity to seize
Now let’s talk about the economic implications of a possible agreement. Peace in eastern DRC could, in the best assumption, generate investors wishing to participate in the exploitation of natural resources in a stabilized territory. With a geopolitics in full change in the Great Lakes region, Angola could become a key player in this new diplomatic game, lightening historical tensions with its neighbors, while asserting itself as a mediator of choice.
#### Conclusion: an uncertain but promising future
The negotiated process, although uncertain, offers a possibility of renewal for the DRC. The real challenge lies in the way in which these talks will be structured and the will of the two parts of overcoming past bitterness. Comparisons with other conflicts on the continent, such as those in Côte d’Ivoire or in South Sudan, show that sustainable peace can also emerge from the ashes of the most violent clashes, provided they integrate a real desire for reconciliation and reconstruction.
Less than three weeks before Luanda talks, the eyes of the world will be on Kinshasa and the M23. The management of this opportunity could trace the way to a lasting peace, but at what price? The fragility of this approach will require special attention and authentic commitment on the part of the actors involved to allow the DRC to finally get out of this infernal cycle of violence.