Congo statement

We recognise that ethnic and tribal differences, and historical hatred left over from the Rwandan genocide, have exacerbated this conflict in eastern Congo. However, the main reason for this “humanitarian catastrophe” is the struggle over mineral wealth to be found in the area which is funding to a large extent, the arms being used in the region.

With more than 250,000 people displaced by the fighting, we call for the United Nations to find ways to disarm the rebel militia and provide a way in which these soldiers can get official training and be accountable to their leaders.