Democratic Republic of
Congo
Years of blood versus minerals
Violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) stems from a complex interplay of historical, political, social, and economic factors.
Decades of colonisation, followed by oppressive rule and exploitation under Belgian colonialism, left a legacy of deep-seated grievances and instability. Post-independence, political power struggles, ethnic tensions, and the proliferation of armed groups have perpetuated cycles of violence.
The abundance of natural resources, including minerals like coltan, gold, and diamonds, has fuelled conflicts as factions vie for control over these lucrative assets.
Weak governance, corruption, and the absence of effective state institutions further exacerbate the situation, creating an environment where violence thrives and accountability is elusive.
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There are over 100 armed groups currently working in the DRC