### The breakdown of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium: a new page in the history of international relations
In a reversal as unexpected as they are elected, Rwanda has broken its diplomatic relations with Belgium, a gesture that resonates in the framework of persistent tensions and conflicts in Africa of the Great Lakes. This diplomatic gesture not only underlines Kigali’s frustrations in the face of what he perceives as a Belgian interference, but also reveals the wider dynamics that govern international relations in a region already marked by complex conflicts.
#### Historical and political context
Rwanda and Belgium have a troubled history which dates back to the Belgian colonization of the country, during which the ethnic tensions between Hutus and Tutsis were exacerbated. Although Rwanda has restored diplomatic relations with Belgium after the 1994 genocide, mutual suspicions remain. This current rupture must therefore be analyzed in the context of the history shared between these two nations, which remains imprinted with resentments and accusations.
The Belgian government, at a time when it imposes sanctions, is in the grip of internal criticism on its foreign policy, in particular with regard to its role in supporting peace initiatives in Africa. This intensification of repressive measures with regard to Rwanda, which includes economic sanctions for military and economic officials, is perceived by Kigali as a denial of his right to national security. Alain Mukuralinda, deputy spokesperson for the Rwandan government, thus evokes a feeling of insulting misunderstanding in the face of the lack of dialogue on his security concerns.
### European sanctions: tool or obstacle?
The sanctions announced by the European Union include heavy accusations against High-Grades of the Rwandan army, referring to their involvement in the armed conflicts present in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Critics of the sanctions suggest that they are often more a reflection of the geopolitical interests of the countries of the North than a real solution to the crisis on the ground. Recent discussions on these sanctions reveal that they could also undermine regional diplomacy efforts when negotiations took place.
The sanctions have real and immediate consequences, including the cancellation of the dialogue provided between the M23 – an active rebellious group in the east of the DRC – and the Congolese authorities. This phenomenon feeds the cycle of violence, and the underlying reasons for insecurity are not taken into consideration. In this sense, punitive measures can often be perceived as climbing rather than a real conflict resolution process.
#### A dynamic of international influence
The Brussels-Kigali axis also opens a deeper debate on international influence in Africa. European countries, through diplomacy and sanctions, seek to influence regimes they consider problematic. However, this approach can be perceived as paternalistic and counterproductive by African states which aspire to greater autonomy. Rwanda, by its radical response, shows that it is not willing to accept decisions made without its consent.
Comparedly, countries like Ethiopia have managed to manage tense relations with Western actors without going so far as to break diplomatic ties. This raises the question: what balance can a country find between the preservation of national sovereignty and respect for international criteria in terms of human rights?
### Conclusion: towards a reassessment of international relations
The rupture of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Belgium is not only a bilateral crisis; It illustrates the challenges that all countries in the region face. Rwandan officials perceive European diplomacy as an instrument of coercion rather than a vector of support for sustainable development. Thus, the real question that arises is that of the construction of a new architecture of security and diplomacy in Africa, present over the long term rather than subject to Western political fluctuations.
While the world is involved in discussions on fair international relations, the case of Rwanda and Belgium recalls that dialogue must predominate about the sanction to lead to lasting and significant solutions. If rupture is a strong declaration, it should not obscure the need for renewed commitment to regional stability and mutual understanding.