### European diplomacy in the face of Congolese challenges: a new page for territorial integrity and humanitarian aid
The political climate in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in full swing, in particular with the recent audience between Prime Minister Judith Suminwa and the special representative of the European Union (EU) for the Great Lakes region, Johan Borgstram. This exchange, which took place on March 4, 2025 in Kinshasa, was much more than a simple diplomatic encounter: it represents a strong symbolic act in favor of Congolese sovereignty and humanitarian response in a world shaken by the Pandemic of conflicts and instability.
While the DRC faces multiple challenges, including violations of its territorial integrity by Rwanda, and a critical humanitarian situation in the east of the country, the interaction between Suminwa and Borgstram has highlighted crucial elements for peace and not only local, but also global. The humanitarian convoy of 44 tonnes announced by the EU, starting from Nairobi to Goma, pointed out increasing pressure on the all parties concerned to generate lasting solutions.
## Territorial integrity: shared prosperity
EU diplomacy is distinguished by its unshakable commitment to respecting sovereign borders. In this regard, the meeting made a strong impression, emphasizing the denunciation of border aggressions and the unwavering support for the DRC. As Borgstram pointed out in Fatshimetrie.org, “guaranteeing the territorial integrity of a state is an imperative not only for peace and security in the region of the Great Lakes, but also to preserve the world order based on respect for sovereign borders.” This recall is part of a context where such principles are increasingly threatened, not only in Africa, but also in Europe and elsewhere.
To better assess the scope of this declaration, it is necessary to examine recent conflict statistics in the region. According to data compiled by the Institute of World Peace, the DRC and its neighbors have experienced a 25% increase in conflicts linked to border violations in the past five years. This trend highlights the need for increased international support to prevent similar drifts worldwide.
The entry of the European Union is perceived as an attempt to stabilize: faced with the rise of regionalism and national sovereignty, the EU appears to be a guarantee of international order, not only supporting the sovereignty of the DRC, but also its efforts to restore a climate of peace in the region.
### Humanitarian and diplomacy: both sides of the same currency
Discussions on the issues of sanctions against Rwanda, mentioned in Fatshimetrics, are indicative of the new orientations of European diplomacy. The idea that coercive measures can be considered in the context of tensions between the DRC and Rwanda testifies to the severity of the situation. Sanctions, often perceived as a last appeal, are part of a broader strategy to persuade state actors respecting international laws.
However, it is wise to wonder if these sanctions would really have a positive impact on the ground, or if they would only be used to exacerbate tensions by creating a distrust environment. International business analysts suggest that approaches combining diplomatic dialogues, strengthening national capacities and measured humanitarian interventions show more convincing results than unilateral interventions.
### Bukanga Lonzo’s trial: a metaphore of legal disorder
In parallel with these diplomatic discussions, the question of the trial of Bukanga Lonzo, postponed to April 14, deserves to be approached. This event reveals the faults of the Congolese judicial system, where defendants often dictate by political and economic issues remain in a situation of impunity. The declaration of lawyers, certainly justifiable in the absence of a summons, raises a crucial point: what is the true effectiveness of justice in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, when figures of influence continually escape judicial nets?
It would therefore appear necessary for the DRC to review its judicial framework in a sense that it would not only reflect the aspirations of the Congolese, but also the expectations of the international community. This would help to strengthen not only confidence in the state, but also to assess the value of foreign support which is not limited to humanitarian aid, but which also aims to promote transparent and responsible governance systems.
### Conclusion
The meeting between Judith Suminwa and Johan Borgstram as well as the actions that result from it mark a turning point in the diplomatic approach between the EU and the DRC. By placing territorial integrity and humanitarian assistance at the heart of exchanges, the European Union seems to want to establish a sustainable solidarity network. However, it is essential that this dynamic is not limited to a purely transactional framework, but that it opens the way to a real strategic partnership, based on mutual respect and shared commitment for peace and stability throughout the Great Lakes region