** Title: Towards a sustainable resolution: the security dilemma of the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo **
In an international context where geopolitical tensions crystallize around armed resources and conflicts, the recent adoption of a resolution on the security situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by the United Nations, hailed by Dorothy Camille Shea, assistant representative of the United States, underlines the urgency of a concerted action. The sanctions imposed on Rwandan officials such as James Kabarebe and Lawrence Kanyuka highlight the complex dynamics that exacerbate the crisis in this region, while lifting the veil on issues often relegated to the background.
### An alarming observation: climbing violence
The east of the DRC, particularly the province of North Kivu, is regularly the scene of prolonged violence and human rights violations, in particular through the actions of the March 23 movement (M23). This armed group, which benefits from the alleged support of Kigali, embodies the fragility of a country rich in mineral resources but exhausted by decades of war and conflicts. The recent clashes in Goma and the occupation of strategic cities like Bukavu and Kavumu are not only demonstrations of a power struggle. They also reflect a struggle for controlling the precious mineral resources in the region, which attracts both local and international lusts.
It should be noted that the DRC has gold, coltan and diamond reserves that make envious. According to some studies, more than 70 % of coltan resources, an essential element in the manufacture of smartphones and other technologies, come from this region. This paradox, that of a wealth that generates poverty and violence, is not new, but it is amplified by the lack of governance and solid democratic institutions.
### A historical perspective: Rwanda and the DRC
Understanding the current conflict in eastern DRC also requires a historical analysis. The tensions between Rwanda and the DRC are rooted in ethnic and political conflicts that date back to the 1990s. At the heart of this complex dynamic, the Rwandan genocide of 1994 led to cross -border consequences of which the DRC paid the price. The phenomenon of “Spled Conflict”, or the propagation of conflicts, illustrates how internal rivalries in Rwanda found a tragic echo in the DRC, causing massive migratory waves and militarization of tensions.
While efforts have been made to restore peace, distrust remains between the two nations. US sanctions are acting as an imperative to account for, but they also raise the question of the effectiveness of a mainly punitive approach. To get out of this cycle of violence, a gentle and integrative strategy, promoting dialogue, could be more effective.
### Geopolitical issues: a complex skein
Dorothy Camille Shea’s recent declaration on the need to impose additional sanctions recalls that the international community must focus its efforts on the establishment of real dialogue mechanisms. However, solutions must go beyond sanctions. In this regard, the joint initiative of the African Union and the United Nations aimed at promoting dialogue between the states of the Great Lakes region could pave the way for sustainable resolution.
In addition, other actors such as the Development Community of Southern Africa (SADC) have a role to play in stabilizing the region. Mutually beneficial cooperation between these organizations would regulate resource flows, while supporting local development, often excluded from peace speeches.
### The voice of diplomacy: a call for action
While recognizing the support of regional initiatives, Dorothy Camille Shea evokes the need for a “robust” response from the Security Council. This declaration draws our attention to duality between interventionism and national sovereignty. Indeed, it is crucial to find a balance between respect for diplomatic pathways and the prevention of new escalations of violence.
If the objective is to restore lasting peace, priorities must include efforts to strengthen institutional capacities, improve human security and promote transitional justice processes. This also involves mobilizing the international community to ensure that the natural resources of the DRC benefit its population first.
### Conclusion: a tortuous path to peace
The future of the eastern DRC is based on a series of solid commitments to international and regional actors. Is the adoption of this resolution the prelude to a change? If the sanctions can put pressure on certain players, they will never replace dialogue and investment in sustainable development. The nations must come together, not only as compliance with international standards, but as partners truly engaged in the search for peace.
It is crucial that instead of being satisfied with a security response, the international community envisages holistic solutions that send the deep roots of the conflict. As we have seen, the situation in the DRC is emblematic of wider dynamics that affect Africa and the whole world. Humanity is today at a crossroads. Global hyperconnectivity requires awareness and collective action to forge a future where peace and prosperity are not exceptions, but a right for all.
** Céline MUTUMBA, Fatshimetrie.org **