Congo, By and For the Congolese: Comparing Congolese and Western Perspectives Through the Lens of Mineral Exploitation

Abstract

Although the West has turned its attention to the crisis in Eastern DR Congo (DRC), the advocacy movement lacks strong engagement with Congolese perspectives on the broader issues. Through qualitative research with Congolese in the DRC and the diaspora, this paper seeks to identify common threads among Congolese perspectives. The emerging consensus suggests that tougher legislation on conflict minerals is constructive, but that the West must be guided by Congolese perspectives on the following issues: pressure on the Congolese government to battle corruption and pursue a just and lasting democratic process, unjust mining contracts with multinationals in Katanga province, foreign policies on Rwanda and Uganda, and a comprehensive approach to issues which underlie sexual violence. It will be years before US conflict minerals legislation directly impacts the DRC. Thus, the West must act now in other ways to use its far-reaching power for the benefit of the Congolese.