Introduction to International Politics

Foreign Event Analysis

Locale[]
Congo (Democratic Republic of the)
Title
Diplomatic Efforts Under Way to End “Human Catastrophe” in DRC
Summary
Clashes between the Democratic Republic of Congo government forces and rebel forces in the area have threatened to spill over into neighboring Rwanda. The situation in DRC has been called a “human catastrophe” leaving thousands dead as thousands more flee from their homes. Gen Nkunda, of the rebel Tutsi group, has called for a cease fire in order that humanitarian aid may reach those caught in the cross-fire. There are some in the DRC government that accuse the Rwandan government of aiding the rebels. Rwanda has denied these claims. The United Nations, the European Union and the African Union are all working to facilitate diplomatic discussion between the Congolese and Rwandan presidents in order to bring an end to border clashes.
Analysis
With the conflict between the Democratic Republic of Congo government and Tutsi rebels gaining worldwide exposure, diplomatic efforts seem to be increasing to bring an end to this violence. This conflict has now threatens to spread beyond the neighboring Rwandan border. The participation of international and regional peace keeping organizations to try and bring an end to the violence is an example of diplomacy and interdependence.
These peace keeping bodies are encouraging the DRC and Rwanda to meet and resolve the current threat through diplomatic means. This suggests that the past use of mere force is not believed to be a successful long term solution for such border disputes. Instead, the participation of not one but two of these organizations, namely the United Nations and the African Union, shows the perceived impact of diplomacy.
In addition to the participation of these two bodies, the European Union has also expressed its support of diplomatic efforts in the region. These efforts display a sense of interdependence among all of these nations. Rwanda and DRC depend upon one another for stability within their own nations. If the conflict were to spread into Rwanda, it would face decreased stability especially in the border regions.
This interdependence also plays a role on a more worldwide level. The area is rich in mineral resources. With a more stable economy and political situation in the region there would, likewise, be increased and more stable trade with other countries.
Perspectivel
Liberal
In-Region URL
http://www.guardiannewsngr.com/africa/article01//indexn2_html?pdate=311008&ptitle=Security%20Council%20weighs%20response%20to%20rebel%20advance%20in%20Congo
Out-of-Region URL
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7701269.stm
Submitted
October 31, 2008 at 12:44 pm