Justice for Congo protest draws thousands

A demonstration denouncing the lack of international attention being paid to the situation in eastern Congo drew more than a thousand protestors to Place du Trône in Brussels.

Participants gathered at the foot of the statue of King Leopold II and accused the European Union of being complicit in the conflict before marching through the municipality of Ixelles towards the Place du Luxembourg next to the European Parliament.

“The Democratic Republic of Congo has been suffering for more than 30 years from the ongoing war that has cost thousands of lives and driven millions of people to flee,” said Eva Demaré of non-profit organisation 11.11.11.

“Now that the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have taken Goma and Bukavu and are advancing, the humanitarian situation is worsening every day.

"People are being randomly tortured, attacked or even murdered. Sexual violence and rape are weapons of war. Arbitrary arrests and detentions are commonplace. And women and children often pay the highest price."

The organisations behind the action say various trade, military and other cooperation agreements involving Belgium and the European Union amount to support of the M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, and one million Congolese citizens have fled their homes as a result of the ongoing conflict.

“[The EU] enters into trade relations with Rwanda, such as a raw materials deal last year,” Demaré said.

“It has been known for many years that this country supports the rebels. The policy is not in line with the principles. We must apply pressure to stop the war in the region.”

According to Demaré, Belgium has recently become more vocal on the issue.

“Belgium is now one of the leading voices within the EU, but should have done this much sooner,” she said.

“There is no humanitarian aid. Far too little attention is being paid to the needs in the region.”

The action was organized by civil society groups including the NGO umbrella organization 11.11.11, Vrede vzw, Viva Salud, Broederlijk Delen and various Congolese diaspora organisations.

Photo: Timon Ramboer/Belga