August 30, 2006 — After emerging from one of the world's deadliest conflicts since the World War II, the Democratic Republic of the Congo stands at a crossroads, with an opportunity to move past years of instability and destruction toward sustained peace and development.
On July 30, the country took a historic step by holding its first democratic elections in 45 years to choose a president and parliament. The country faced enormous logistical challenges in organizing and executing the elections, including difficulties transporting the voting materials to many areas of the vast country and threats of violence by supporters of political parties boycotting the election. Despite these challenges, the election day itself had limited technical problems and few incidences of violence -causing observers to characterize July 30 as "a small miracle."
The country is now preparing for a runoff for the presidency on October 29, as no candidate won over 50 percent of the vote in July. Since the announcement of the runoff election there has been some violence and the possibility of more conflict remains high.
What is certain is that international attention must remain focused on the Congo long after the results of the elections are released. Once the elections are complete and a new government is in place, it will face enormous challenges in managing the reconstruction process, governing transparently and meeting the basic needs of its citizens. Sustained engagement by the international community will be crucial in making these goals a reality.
"The situation remains precarious, and we're concerned that any setbacks to the democratic process will exacerbate the already catastrophic humanitarian situation," says Jeff Seed, CARE's country director in the Congo. "These elections represent the best chance to bring peace to the people of the Congo. All political leaders, as well as the international community, have an obligation to the millions of Congolese who voted peacefully and who have put their faith into this process."
CARE provided relief in the Congo from 1994 to 1997, following the genocide in Rwanda. We resumed operations in 2001, and are currently working in the provinces of Maniema, Equateur, and in East Kasai and West Kasai. Our programs focus on strengthening civil society, microfinance, health, education, sustainable management of resources and child protection.
In addition to our work on the ground, CARE has been working in the United States to promote the passage of The Democratic Republic of the Congo Relief, Security and Democracy Promotion Act in Congress. This legislation requires the United States to establish a clear and comprehensive strategy to assist the new Congolese government in addressing the challenges it will face in ensuring lasting peace and improving the lives of Congolese citizens. The support of the international community is more important than ever in helping the Congo move forward to a promising and secure future.
Read more about CARE's call for continued international engagement and support
Read an interview with Brian Larson, CARE's former country director for the Congo
