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New Atlanticist

Jun 27, 2025

Experts react: The DRC and Rwanda agreed to a US-backed peace deal. Can critical minerals help end this conflict?

By Atlantic Council experts

Will this agreement succeed in halting the fighting? Our experts read between the lines of the peace agreement.

Conflict Democratic Republic of the Congo
A view shows buildings behind a street of the Gombe area, ahead of the announcement of provisional results of the December presidential election, in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo December 30, 2023.

Issue Brief

May 23, 2025

Beyond critical minerals: Capitalizing on the DRC’s vast opportunities

By Dave Peterson, Mvemba Phezo Dizolele, Rabah Areki, Thomas De Dreux-Brézé, Nicole Namwezi Batumike, and Calixte Ahokpossi

As major powers contend for access to Kinshasa’s mineral wealth and Washington seeks to broker a peace deal with Rwanda, the DRC and its partners have a chance to aim high, and channel the country’s resource wealth into good governance, infrastructure, and more.

Democratic Republic of the Congo Economy & Business

EnergySource

Apr 23, 2025

Illicit mineral supply chains fuel the DRC’s M23 insurgency 

By Clarkson Kamurai, Brad Handler, and Morgan Bazilian

The illicit trade of mined materials is fueling the M23 insurgency in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), threatening regional stability and hindering development. As the United States considers a minerals-for-security agreement with the DRC, international engagement, ethical sourcing practices, and strengthened oversight are critical to fostering long-term peace in this resource-rich region.

Africa Democratic Republic of the Congo

Podcast

Mar 3, 2025

Mercenaries in DRC: “Do not come for adventure here”

By Alia Brahimi

After 300 Romanian mercenaries were cornered by M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo in January, Ben reflects on the reasons behind the rebels’ advance, as well as the perennial need for DRC’s government to look to external security providers for help with managing threats.

Africa Arms Control

AfricaSource

Jul 12, 2024

Integrating artisanal mining into the formal economy would benefit African miners and economies alike

By Sarah Way

Many artisanal and small-scale miners work informally and face harsh conditions. Here's how the international community can help.

Africa Democratic Republic of the Congo

AfricaSource

Jun 3, 2024

In a Congolese mining case, Biden can secure a win for US sanctions policy in Africa

By Benjamin Mossberg

Easing sanctions on Dan Gertler gives Washington the opportunity to show that its sanctions policy toward Africa can be effective.

Africa Corruption
DRC

AfricaSource

Sep 27, 2022

Here’s what a Marshall Plan for the DRC could look like

By Jean-Paul Mvogo

The development progress the DRC witnessed in the 1970s is now lost. A massive economic assistance program equivalent to the Marshall Plan may be necessary to recover what's been lost.

Africa Democratic Republic of the Congo

Engagement Reframed

Mar 24, 2022

Engagement Reframed #5: Deploy America’s secret diplomatic superstars

By Evan Cooper

How the United States can leverage its immense musical talent for diplomatic benefit

Africa Americas

AfricaSource

Sep 24, 2021

Make way for Wakanda: The UN Security Council needs an African seat

By Rama Yade

The Security Council was built on the principle of sovereignty and equality of all nations. Its democratization and reformation are overdue—and must consider Africa.

Africa Democratic Republic of the Congo

New Atlanticist

Aug 31, 2021

To build lasting peace, you can’t ignore militant groups

By Imran Bayoumi

Efforts to stabilize conflict-ridden countries sometimes fail in large part because of their inability to constructively engage armed non-state groups.

Afghanistan Africa
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Experts

Fellow

Rama Yade

Senior Director, Africa Center

Africa Center Europe Center

Civil Society Human Rights