The Congolese Churches have launched a new peace initiative, the “Social Pact for Peace and Living Together in the DRC and the Great Lakes Region.” This initiative aims to combat ongoing violence and promote social cohesion amid severe humanitarian crises. The roadmap outlines principles for restoring peace, highlights the need for collective action, and recognizes the importance of local traditions in conflict resolution.
In response to ongoing instability in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the surrounding Great Lakes region, the Congolese Catholic and Protestant Churches have introduced a significant peace initiative. This coalition, represented by the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), aims to alleviate the escalating humanitarian crises and conflicts that have plagued the region for over three decades.
Titled the “Social Pact for Peace and Living Together in the DRC and the Great Lakes Region,” this roadmap aspires to unify citizens, religious communities, and political leaders towards the common objective of ending violence and promoting social cohesion. The initiative was publicized in Kinshasa during a joint press conference by CENCO’s Monsignor Donatien Nshole and ECC’s Reverend Eric Nsenga.
The plight of the people in Eastern DRC has worsened, particularly following the resurgence of militia violence that escalated in 2022. This violence has resulted in widespread displacement, with over six million people affected within the country and one million seeking refuge in other African nations. Traditional diplomatic resolutions have failed due to the intricate local and regional dynamics driving the conflict.
The Churches are advocating for a return to African cultural practices that historically facilitated conflict resolution, particularly emphasizing the significance of community discussions reminiscent of the traditional “palaver tree.” They have designated the year 2025 as the “Year of Peace and Living Together,” urging cooperation among DRC, Rwanda, and Burundi to enhance peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
To establish enduring peace and stability, the roadmap outlines five core principles. These include restoring African identity values, resolving disputes through dialogue, embracing diversity, encouraging political leaders to prevent armed conflicts, and fostering international support to promote justice and environmental sustainability.
Acknowledging the complexity of their mission, the Congolese Churches plan to form thematic commissions that will tackle peace and social cohesion. These commissions will conduct workshops leading to a national Charter for peace and harmony, which is set to be adopted during a forthcoming national forum.
The Churches characterize their initiative as both “prophetic and pastoral.” They emphasize that the success of the Social Pact hinges on the active support and participation of the Congolese populace. They intend to engage key sociopolitical influencers nationally and internationally to expand the reach of their initiative.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been a focal point for humanitarian crises and regional conflicts, exacerbated by decades of militia and political violence. The ongoing instability affects millions, leading to widespread displacement and a deteriorating human rights situation. The Church’s engagement in peacebuilding efforts stems from a historical context of strife in the Great Lakes region, influenced by complex inter-community relationships and external pressures, notably from neighboring countries.
The Churches in the DRC have embarked on a critical initiative to foster peace in the Great Lakes region, underscoring the importance of dialogue, community involvement, and cultural values. Their comprehensive roadmap outlines actionable principles for achieving lasting stability while emphasizing the need for a united front from all societal sectors. The proactive approach aims not only to address current crises but also to build foundations for sustainable peace in the future.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
