The Democratic Republic of the Congo is volatile and unstable, with the Congolese people suffering from an ongoing humanitarian catastrophe. The worst instances of sexual violence in the world and massive displacement of people are occurring in eastern Congo. The situation would be even worse without the UN peacekeeping mission in the country. Although the UN presence will remain essential for years, regular rumblings suggest that the operation should move toward closure rapidly. The situation remains desperate despite progress on many fronts since 2001. And with a growing dependence on foreign oil and energy supplies, China also has taken a major new interest in the Congo.
This report argues that the United States must develop a long-term approach to securing the peace and sustaining progress in the Congo. Its aim should not be just to tread water and prevent deterioration of conditions but to help move Congo forward. The report provides concrete recommendations on steps the United States should take to end the rampant violence and insecurity in eastern Congo, to engage with China, and to promote broad-based, environmentally sound sustainable development.