Category: History

### The Congo Inquiry Commission: a call for action

The recent report of the Commission of Inquiry on the Congo offers much more than a summary of the historic tragedies of this country; It arouses an awareness of the injustices that last today. At the heart of this analysis is the question of colonial heritage and neocolonial policies, which continue to affect millions of Congolese, more than half of whom live with less than one dollar per day, despite the natural richness of their land.

This report, accessible while being rich in historical contexts and data, challenges not only Western nations on their past role, but also on their current responsibilities towards Africa. By traveling in international and media spheres, it could catalyze movements in favor of essential reforms and strengthen struggles for human rights.

In short, this historical survey is an impose a potential turning point for the Congo, inviting everyone to reflect on their own responsibility in the construction of a fairer and united future. While the pages of history are rewritten, responsibility and collective commitment become more crucial than ever.

### Pink: the prehistoric face that redefines our story

A major paleontological discovery recently emerged from the depths of the Sierra de Atapuerca in Spain: the fossil of a face, nicknamed “Pink”, over a million years old. This vestige could upset our understanding of human evolution in Europe, suggesting that our ancestors already lived in the continent well before the 40,000 years generally accepted. The first analyzes suggest belonging to a previous species, potentially a common ancestor of Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis, resulting in reflections on our roots. Pink is not limited to a simple fossil; It represents a reflection of our shared history and raises crucial questions about our modern identities and the dynamics of our ancestors. Faced with this revelation, scientists and society must revisit not only our past, but also our perception of humanity. Pink is now a symbol of a future where discoveries bring us closer and challenge us in our place in the great story of evolution.

** Martyrs day in Egypt: a celebration of the past, a bridge towards the future **

On March 9, Egyptian military museums opened their doors for free to honor martyrs and veterans, illustrating a strong gesture of recognition from the armed forces. This initiative is not only a commemoration, but a call for civic education around the complex and rich history of the country. By plunging into the stories of bravery and sacrifice, visitors, especially the younger generations, are invited to reflect on their national identity in a context where social and political crises persist.

At the same time, this celebration raises questions about the national and international perception of military heroism. In a world marked by increasing tensions, these events play a key role in promoting a feeling of belonging and pride. While Egypt relies on cultural tourism to revitalize its economy, free access to these historic sites is transformed into a development lever which, beyond collective memory, can shape a more united future. In this context, respect for the past stands out as a foundation to build a cohesive and enlightened society.

** The spectrum of the past: when a bomb of the Second World War reminds Paris in Paris **

On March 7, 2025, the Gare du Nord de Paris was the scene of an unexpected discovery: a 500 kg bomb dating from the Second World War. Although traffic quickly resumed, this event highlights a disturbing inheritance still present under our feet. With around 300,000 tonnes of non -neutralized ammunition in France, this situation questions the management of the past in the face of modern infrastructure and security challenges. By resonating with the French collective conscience, this discovery invites you to reflect on the impact of history on everyday life, revealing both community resilience and the need to aware of society in the face of an always alive legacy. While Parisian life resumes its course, it is essential to keep in mind the lessons of the past which continue to shape our present.

** An interrupted trip: reflections on a committed past and a complex present **

On March 7, 2024, the discovery of an unploded bomb near the Gare du Nord in Paris sparked a situation of chaos and disorganization for millions of passengers. This unexpected event, much more than a simple incident, highlights the persistence of the vestiges of the Second World War on our territory and raises crucial questions about collective memory. While crisis management is a major challenge, travelers, forced to adaptability, must navigate in this disturbed context. This incident pushes us to reflect not only on public security and logistical efficiency, but also on the future of urban mobility in a society still marked by a tumultuous heritage. An awareness is necessary to consider how our past continues to influence our daily trips and our collective future.

** Saqqara: The incident of the ancestral statue **

Recently, the emblematic site of SAQQARA plunged into media turmoil following accusations of destruction of a 4,300 -year -old statue. While the videos of the archaeological discovery aroused enthusiasm and curiosity, the reaction of the Egyptians, anxious to preserve their heritage, was lively. Dr. Zahi Hawass, an emblematic figure of Egyptian archeology, tried to reassure the public, explaining that the extraction of the statue, although delicate, was crucial to enrich our historical understanding. This conflict highlights the challenges encountered by archaeologists between preservation and exploration, and underlines the importance of a constructive dialogue with the population on the way in which its cultural heritage is treated. Faced with this controversy, an opportunity emerges: that of strengthening the link between archeology and cultural identity of the Egyptians, by establishing a transparent communication around the challenges of the discipline.

### Language as an identity: a call for cultural preservation

In an increasingly globalized world, the “Wiki for Mother Tongue” campaign launched in Kinshasa by Wikilingula ASBL and CERISEPRODUCTION stands out as a crucial initiative for the safeguard of African languages. On the occasion of the 25ᵉ anniversary of International Language Day, this event invites us to reflect on the role of languages ​​in the preservation of cultural identities.

While nearly 7,000 languages ​​go out at an alarming rate, the campaign highlights the importance of a digital presence to revitalize these languages. Thanks to workshops and conferences, concrete tools are offered to encourage young people to enhance their inheritance while registering in modernity.

With the ambition to build an inclusive digital future, “Wiki for Mother Tongue” is not only a call for action, but a cry of the heart so that each voice, each language, finds its place in the concert of ‘humanity. By allowing mother tongues to emerge on digital platforms, this pave initiative for a future where cultural diversity is not only recognized but celebrated.

** Port-Bouët: a decisive turning point for Côte d’Ivoire **

On February 20, 2024, the return of the Port-Bouët military base to the Ivorian authorities will mark an important milestone in the history of Franco-Ivorian relations. Beyond the simple transition of sovereignty, this event symbolizes the desire of Côte d’Ivoire to assert its autonomy and to rethink its alliances on the international scene. The basis, anchored in colonial history, now embodies the hope of a reinforced national defense, with a strongly increased military budget, a reflection of a desire to move towards partnerships focused on regional cooperation.

This act testifies to the commitment of Côte d’Ivoire to build independent alliances, while being part of a broader movement of African integration in the face of contemporary challenges. While the country redefines itself, the restitution of Port-Bouët calls for a reflection on the future of the continent, states a need for autonomy with regard to external powers and places lasting peace at the center of priorities. In this new chapter, Port-Bouët becomes the symbol of an Ivory Coast ready to take up the challenges of tomorrow.

**The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: Egypt’s Cultural Future Emerges**

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) has established itself as a pillar of Egypt’s cultural landscape, posting impressive financial results since its opening in April 2021. Its director, Al-Tayyeb Abbas, highlighted this momentum during a recent meeting, presenting strategies combining innovation and community engagement.

The NMEC has succeeded in attracting a diverse audience thanks to a rich artistic program and technological partnerships, notably with Meta, to integrate immersive experiences. This modern approach is accompanied by a desire to promote Egypt’s cultural heritage as a whole, by offering attractive tourist packages.

Nevertheless, the museum faces challenges, between growing competition and the need for optimal management of its resources. As it redoubles its efforts to cement its place in the cultural economy, the NMEC could redefine the way museums interact with their audiences, combining tradition and modernity in a quest for accessibility. With such aspirations, Egypt has all the cards in hand to become a sought-after destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

**Mosul and the Al-Hadba Minaret: A Renewal at the Heart of Cultural Resilience**

The recent restoration of the Al-Hadba Minaret in Mosul symbolizes a renaissance that goes far beyond simple architectural rehabilitation. This monument, destroyed by the Islamic State in 2014, embodies the struggle of the Iraqi population to preserve its heritage and identity after years of conflict. Its rehabilitation, the result of a collective effort combining local artisans and international actors, testifies to the determination of the Mosulians to rebuild. In a way, the leaning minaret becomes a metaphor for hope, reminding us that even in the midst of adversity, communities can reinvent themselves. This renaissance also has economic repercussions, with the potential to revitalize tourism, making Mosul a source of inspiration for those who aspire to transform the scars of the past into a promising future.