** The Democratic Republic of Congo in the face of geopolitical tensions: between national sovereignty and international issues **
The energetic speech of Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, president of the Congolese Senate, marked by a reaffirmation of the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the face of the aggressiveness of the M23, supported by Rwanda, illustrates a critical and complex period not only for the DRC, but also for the whole of the Great Lakes region. This event marks the opening of a crucial parliamentary session, while the country is faced with increased security challenges. Its appeal to the full preservation of national borders and its denunciation of foreign interference underline a strong national feeling in the face of perceived interference and an insidious exploitation of the country’s natural resources.
The importance of territorial sovereignty evoked by Sama Lukonde should not, however, be seen in isolation. Indeed, the situation in the DRC is emblematic of the often interconnected and complex tensions that are emerging in the region. As such, resolution 2773 of the United Nations Security Council, which calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities from the M23 and the withdrawal of the Rwandan forces, presents itself as a significant diplomatic advance. It sheds significant light on the need for concerted action by the international community, and also underlines the central role that the UN must play in the settlement of this type of conflict, particularly at the heart of a region under the yoke of various geopolitical interests.
By analyzing the current situation, the war in the Congo recalls previous conflicts, such as the first and the Second Congo War, which had international repercussions. Indeed, not only does the DRC have immense natural resources which draw the attention of the world powers, but its history is also marked by economic and human exploitation by both national and international actors. The rise of M23 can then be perceived not only as a local phenomenon, but as the fruit of an international ecosystem of interests, where certain multinationals and governments exploit instabilities to access resources.
A look at the figures also makes it possible to better appreciate the situation. The DRC has huge reserves of mineral resources, including the Coltan, which is essential for the production of modern technologies. A study by the Institute of Security Studies in Africa revealed that the exploitation of these resources, coupled with instability, had resulted in a tragic human cost: almost 5.4 million deaths have been attributed to war and violence since the late 1990s. These figures are not only statistics; They represent lives, families and communities which are undermined by a fight for power and access to resources.
The next few weeks will be crucial to determine the outcome of this crisis. The planned diplomatic meetings, in particular those of the SADC and EAC Foreign Affairs Ministers, as well as the negotiations in Luanda, are essential. However, they must be conducted with a firm political will on the part of all stakeholders, including the international community. The absence of a concrete commitment is likely to plunge the DRC again into a cycle of endless violence and impunity. It is imperative that the heads of state of the region set aside their disputes and focus on the creation of a constructive dialogue for peace.
Far from the speeches offered by diplomats and leaders, it is the voice of the Congolese population, often marginalized in these negotiations, which remains essential. The sacrifices of Congolese youth, the cries of despair of the displaced populations and the desire for peace and prosperity must guide the decisions taken at all levels. The DRC needs real regional and international solidarity, based on respect for human dignity and national sovereignty.
Ultimately, current events in the DRC are not only a question of armed conflict, but an opportunity to rethink regional and international cooperation, based on mutual respect and understanding of the mysteries that make up this rich and complex region. Sustainable peace in the DRC and in the Great Lakes is based on the capacity of the actors involved in transcending their selfish interests in favor of a common future promoted by harmony and mutual respect. The shadow of war is still looming, but there is a glimmer of hope – that of a renewed commitment to peace and an unprecedented development in this country with high potential.