The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict has been worsening, and Rwanda's involvement in it has gained global concern. Sanctions against Rwanda have been proposed, but they may not be powerful enough to put an end to the crisis. The alternative is to implement current agreements to pacify the region, address the root causes of the conflict, and foster regional cooperation.
Background of the Conflict
The mineral-rich eastern region of the DRC has been a hotbed for the armed groups, with the M23 rebels among them. The armed groups have been engaged in all sorts of activities, from capturing major cities to annexing territories. The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have captured some of the most strategic locations, including Bukavu, a city with nearly a million inhabitants on the lake shores of Lake Kivu. This career has revealed Congolese troops' vulnerabilities and fueled doubts regarding the political life of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi. The war has caused massive displacement and an increased humanitarian crisis. citeturn0news33
Rwanda's Involvement
Rwanda's president, Paul Kagame, has been accused of supporting the M23 rebels. Kagame has denied the accusations despite United Nations reports that exposed Rwanda's activities. He has also defied global pressure, including threats of sanctions, by stating that Rwanda will not be bothered by Western diplomatic pressure and that it will be concerned with its "existential threats." citeturn0search13
International Response
The world has responded with varying degrees of urgency. The European Parliament has asked the EU to suspend direct budget support to Rwanda pending its disengagement from its alignment with the M23 rebels and provision of humanitarian access in the DRC. They also request suspension of a memorandum of understanding on Rwandan strategic minerals supply pending the ending of Rwanda's interference in Congo. citeturn0news36
The same, the United States has also imposed sanctions against those individuals responsible for fueling the war in eastern DRC. Such sanctions show the U.S. intention to foster peace and end the disastrous humanitarian crisis. citeturn0search1
Sanctions Challenges
Even as sanctions aim to pressure Rwanda to cut its support to the M23 rebels, their effectiveness is questionable. Kagame's obstinacy and pluralism of interests in the conflict mean that sanctions may not be sufficient. Compounding this situation is that there are many actors involved, from neighboring countries to other militant groups, with varying agendas and interests.
A better alternative is to return to and implement prevailing covenants that seek to secure the region. These pacts are based on regional collaboration, respect for sovereignty, and protection of human rights. Taking these values as a point of reference, the stakeholders can seek a general solution that addresses the causes of the conflict as well as achieves long-term peace.
Conclusion
The conflict in the eastern DRC is a multifaceted crisis that requires a nuanced and collaborative approach. Sanctions against Rwanda may be a pressure measure, but they will not bring an end to the war. A collective effort to implement current agreements, foster regional cooperation, and address the underlying causes of the war offers a more viable path towards peace and stability in the region.