The eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is one of the most complex and least highlighted crisis regions in the world. Since the 1990s, ongoing violence has shaped the region, closely linked to the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and the subsequent Congo wars.

In North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri, numerous armed groups are active, while geopolitical tensions, regional rivalries, and international economic interests further complicate the situation. The region is rich in key minerals such as copper, cobalt, gold, and tantalum, whose extraction is often associated with environmental damage, child labor, armed conflict, and displacement. Most resources are exported unprocessed, creating little local economic benefit.

The humanitarian impact is severe: around 6.4 million people are internally displaced, and an estimated 26.6 million are expected to face food insecurity in 2026. International organizations continue to document serious human rights violations, likely far higher than reported.

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The panel discussion brings together diverse perspectives from international diplomacy, development cooperation, civil society, and research, offering a nuanced view of the challenges and potential solutions in the Great Lakes region. The focus will be on current political developments and the following questions:

• What realistic prospects do current peace initiatives offer?
• How can economic cooperation and regional collaboration contribute to stability?
• What responsibilities do international actors, companies, and we as part of global supply chains bear?
• And above all: What solutions can truly benefit the people on the ground?

We also intend to showcase paths of hope and explore concrete strategies for a more peaceful and equitable future in eastern Congo. After the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas over drinks and snacks.