Controversy Erupts as European Union Signs MOU with Rwanda
The European Union’s “Global Gateway” strategy took a controversial turn on Monday, February 19, 2024, as it signed a memorandum of understanding with Rwanda, eliciting a strong reaction from the NGO JUSTICIA Asbl.
This organization, operating out of the Democratic Republic of Congo and dedicated to promoting human rights and sustainable development, voiced deep concern over the decision.
JUSTICIA Asbl finds it perplexing that the European Union, which prides itself on being the guardian of universal values such as peace, democracy, and human rights, would enter into such an agreement.
Against the backdrop of accusations against Rwanda for allegedly militarily intervening in the DRC by supporting the M23 rebel movement, this agreement appears to contradict the fundamental principles upheld by the EU.
“In the same context and circumstances, could the European Union sign an agreement with Russia regarding the sustainable value chains of minerals extracted by it in Ukraine?” the organization questions.
The NGO points out that several countries and international institutions have acknowledged Rwanda’s direct involvement in the resurgence of insecurity in eastern DRC.
Moreover, reports indicate that Rwanda illicitly exported 90% of 3T minerals from the DRC. In light of this, JUSTICIA Asbl views this agreement as tacit endorsement of Rwanda’s aggressive actions and the human rights violations committed by its army and the M23.
The NGO urges the European Union to pressure Rwanda into ceasing all support for the M23 and to halt the exploitation of Congolese mineral resources.
Additionally, it calls for the revocation of this memorandum of understanding, which it believes systematically violates the EU Treaty. JUSTICIA Asbl also encourages NGOs from EU member countries to bring the matter before the Court of Justice of the European Union to annul the agreement.
In response to these criticisms, Nicolas Berlanga, Ambassador of the European Union to the DRC, met with Christophe Lutundula, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the DRC.
Berlanga reiterated the EU’s commitment to combating illicit mineral trafficking and promoting transparency in mining value chains.
He also affirmed the EU’s readiness to collaborate with the DRC in the critical minerals sector, in line with the memorandum of understanding signed in October 2023.
Mr. Berlanga emphasized the EU’s stance on the crisis in eastern DRC, condemning Rwanda’s support for the M23 and calling for its withdrawal. Furthermore, he reaffirmed the EU’s dedication to achieving a peaceful resolution to the security crisis in the region.
