** Conflicts and war inheritances in the Democratic Republic of Congo: between demining and reintegration **
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a large country rich in natural resources, is regularly confronted with humanitarian crisis situations, which are often only the perspectives of a past marked by devastating conflicts. The recent United Nations alert concerning the explosive remains of war in the North Kivu region highlights a serious and persistent problem: that of insecurity for civilians, exacerbated by the slowness of demining operations.
### A persistent threat
The spokesman for the United Nations Secretary General Stéphane Dujarric recalled that the presence of these remains, notably in Walikale, constitutes a deadly threat not only for the inhabitants but also for humanitarian workers who strive to assist the vulnerable populations. According to the OBC Observatory in the DRC, a recent estimate reports several hundred victims of accidents related to anti -personnel mines and other unspecified ammunition, which continue to wreak havoc after the end of the fighting.
The call of civil society groups to avoid “premature feedback” before the completion of demining operations is therefore not to be taken lightly. The resistance of displaced communities to return to areas which they still consider to be dangerous is enlightening. It illustrates a deep distrust of a security situation deemed unstable.
### The bodies found and the spectrum of the M23
The recent body discoveries, 18 of which have been found since the withdrawal of the March 23 movement (M23), pose crucial questions on persistent tensions between different armed factions and on local governance. The fact that these bodies are dressed as soldiers makes identification difficult, thus fueling rumors and speculation among the population. This could also sow more division in a region where peace and reconciliation still seem distant.
The testimonies of the inhabitants, who suspect other bodies in the surrounding forest, highlight the need for a quick and coordinated response from the authorities and NGOs, to prevent health risks. The decaying bodies that have not been recovered represent a threat to public health, while the DRC is already fighting against infectious diseases and recurring health crises, such as cholera.
### to an uncertain future
The peace process in the DRC is hampered by various complex dynamics. Dialogue between communities, security forces and humanitarian actors is essential to promote a safe return from displaced populations. However, this dynamic must also take into account the socio-economic issues faced by communities. Poverty, the scarcity of health services and the lack of infrastructure are realities that persist, making reconstruction even more difficult.
In a context where the multiplication of conflicts exacerbates the suffering of civilians, a attention worthy of interest is paid on the initiatives of demining and community awareness. Organizations like Mines Advisory Group and International Handicap work for demining campaigns, but the involvement of the Congolese state remains crucial. The financing and the resources allocated to these operations are often insufficient, thus slowing down the implementation of sustainable solutions.
The legacy of armed conflicts in the DRC therefore manifests itself in various aspects, from immediate security to long -term reconstruction. The question then arises: what is required, apart from humanitarian efforts, to achieve a significant change? One of the key elements could reside in education. Through educational programs dedicated to raising awareness of the dangers of mines and explosive remains, we could hope for better prevention and empowerment of communities.
### Conclusion
The challenges faced by the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in the context of the explosive war remains, are not solely security. They are intimately linked to social, economic issues and the reinstatement of confidence between populations and their leaders. At a time when communities are starting to consider a return to their homes, it is crucial that demining efforts are accelerated and that the Congolese state takes responsibility. Sustainable peace in the DRC will, in fact, be the fruit of a collective approach, which requires attentive listening to the often ignored voices of those who live on the ground.