Representatives from DRC civil society & Catholic Church Justice and Peace speak at Brussels Conference.
In the global discourse on sustainability and responsible resource management, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands as a critical focal point. Its abundant natural resources, particularly minerals like cobalt essential for modern technology, are inextricably linked to global supply chains. However, amidst the clamour for digitization and decarbonization, the voices advocating for moderation and accountability are growing louder. Recent actions organized by various associations have highlighted the pressing need to prioritize food security, peasant agriculture, and the preservation of natural ecosystems in the DRC.
“The indispensable role of cobalt sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is unmistakable in the global automotive industry and the production of smartphones. Virtually every vehicle traversing roads worldwide depends on DRC cobalt for its battery, while the very smartphone in your possession likely incorporates minerals from the region.”
One significant aspect underscored by these actions is the adverse impact of mining extraction on food security and local communities in the DRC. The exploitation of minerals often leads to environmental degradation, water pollution, and human rights violations, including sexual violence and forced displacement of communities. Peasant agriculture, crucial for ensuring food sovereignty, faces challenges due to land grabs and disruptions caused by mining activities. Advocates stress the necessity of promoting agroecology as a sustainable alternative to mitigate these adverse effects while addressing the root causes of violence and displacement.
Furthermore, the call for accountability extends beyond borders, emphasizing the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions caused by resource extraction in the carbon footprint of consuming nations, particularly the European Union (EU). This demand aims to prevent carbon leakage and ensure a more equitable distribution of environmental costs associated with global supply chains. Additionally, there is a push for socially just moderation policies, advocating for measures to combat planned obsolescence, regulate excessive consumption, and promote collective transportation modes. These actions are seen as essential steps towards mitigating the negative impacts of resource extraction on both local communities and the global environment.
The recent mobilizations in Brussels serve as a testament to the growing awareness of the interconnectedness of resource exploitation, environmental degradation, and social justice. Through collaborative efforts among diverse associations, the conversation around responsible resource management is gaining momentum on a global scale. However, translating these demands into actionable policies requires sustained advocacy and dialogue among stakeholders at local, national, and international levels. As the world grapples with the challenges of a rapidly changing climate and increasing demand for technology, ensuring food security and preserving natural resources in regions like the DRC must remain paramount priorities for a sustainable future.
Public campaign in support of Food Security and Peace in DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands at the crossroads of global demand for its abundant natural resources, particularly minerals essential for modern technology. However, the exploitation of these resources often comes at a grave cost to local communities and the environment, highlighting the urgent need for responsible resource management. Recent actions organized by various associations have underscored the importance of prioritizing food security, peasant agriculture, and environmental preservation in the face of growing pressures for digitization and decarbonization.
Advocates emphasize the adverse impacts of mining extraction on food security, human rights, and the environment in the DRC, calling for the promotion of sustainable alternatives such as agroecology. Furthermore, there is a demand for accountability from consuming nations, particularly the European Union (EU), to include greenhouse gas emissions from resource extraction in their carbon footprint. Additionally, calls for socially just moderation policies aim to address the root causes of environmental degradation and social injustice associated with resource exploitation.
The recent mobilizations in Brussels reflect a growing awareness of the interconnectedness of resource exploitation, environmental degradation, and social justice on a global scale. However, translating these demands into actionable policies requires sustained advocacy and dialogue among stakeholders. As the world navigates the challenges of climate change and technological advancement, ensuring food security and preserving natural resources in regions like the DRC must remain central to efforts for a more sustainable future.
Br. Elvis Ng’andwe, M.Afr
AEFJN Executive Secretary
