Publication

This paper provides a snapshot of the situation in the Ituri district of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where there is ongoing fighting between six main militia groups. Drawing from interviews with combatants, the author argues that the perpetuation of the conflict is less the consequence of ethnic hatred than of the generalized insecurity throughout the district. Therefore, the author contends, there is some hope that stability can return if the ex-combatants are provided with viable alternatives to waging war. The author then discusses the disarmament process and the role of the UN peacekeeping forces in the district, focusing on challenges such as lack of funding.