### The call for mobilization and the challenges of security in the DRC: a new strategy to find peace?
In the tumultuous context of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the discourse made by Modeste Bahati Lukwebo, second vice-president of the Senate and emblematic figure of the political group alliance of the Democratic Forces of Congo and allies (AFDC-A), deserves to draw particular attention. Faced with the Rwandan aggression, through the rebellion of the M23, Bahati chose to leave the shadows to state a clear position on the need to redefine the strategy of response to the security crisis in the east of the country. But beyond his declarations, his call for the mobilization of Congolese youth raises crucial questions about the army, governance and the return to lasting peace.
#### A complex historical and geopolitical context
The current situation in the DRC cannot be understood without a return to the complex history of the Great Lakes region, marked by ethnic tensions and recurring geopolitical crises. The M23, with roots anchored in past conflicts, is supported by a Rwanda in search of securing its strategic interests. This dynamic highlights not only the fragility of peace in the DRC, but also the role played by neighboring states in its internal conflicts. Bahati’s initiative to call youth to enlist in the army may seem galvanizing, but it also raises the question of whether an army reinforced without clear support for political and economic reforms can really make a difference on the ground.
### E non inexplicable mobilization: the army as a vector of change?
The idea of mobilizing youth to defend the fatherland is part of a tradition of patriotism, but it seems to ignore certain realities. Desertion statistics in the national army, often due to precarious living conditions and a lack of motivation, are not to be overlooked. Thus, the effectiveness of such an appeal could be questioned without a real army reform, in terms of training, armaments and working conditions. In addition, marriage between civic mobilization and military reform could constitute a major asset to stabilize the country, but this would require a national consensus around a vision of development and peace.
#### An integrated approach to peace
Bahati also mentioned complementary patterns such as the Luanda and Nairobi processes, as well as the Cenco-ECC social pact for peace. These peace initiatives, when associated with economic, social and political reforms, could bear fruit. For example, the integration of economic actors in the peace process can transform old rivalries into sustainable partnerships. According to recent studies, countries that have invested in local development projects experienced a 30% drop in internal conflicts in the following five years. Such a model could serve as a roadmap for the DRC.
#### The need for a serene political debate
Bahati’s speech also raises a crucial issue: political governance and internal cohesion. In a country where ethnicist and political tensions persist, the need for a constructive dialogue between the different political forces is more urgent than ever. The denunciation of “flattering” and highlighting patriotic values testifies to a desire to unite the Congolese around a common project. However, this requires a space for peaceful and constructive dialogue, far from the practices of debauchery or disobedience that plague the political landscape.
### towards a future based on education and awareness
Finally, if we want a call for mobilization to have a lasting impact, it must be accompanied by a real education and awareness strategy with youth. Some alarming statistics on literacy rate and the disengagement of young people from political questions show that it is crucial to establish an educational framework that promotes active citizenship. Creating open discussion spaces, focused on history, culture and contemporary challenges of the DRC could lead youth to identify their nation more and actively get involved in their defense.
### Conclusion
The call of Modeste Bahati Lukwebo to the mobilization of young people to defend the fatherland is part of a context of urgent crisis. However, the response to this crisis cannot be limited to a simple military mobilization; It must be integrated into a wider collective project of military, economic and political reforms. In order for the DRC to consider a peaceful and prosperous future, it will be essential to create conditions favorable to inclusive dialogue while implementing concrete initiatives which strengthen the resilience of its population in the face of security challenges. The future of the country will depend on its ability to transform mobilization into a force of positive and lasting change.