Challenges and opportunities in the DRC: A conversation with President Félix Tshisekedi

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. EDT
Online: https://www.brookings.edu/events/challenges-and-opportunities-in-the-drc-a-conversation-with-president-felix-tshisekedi/ 

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces unique challenges and opportunities in a world marked by armed conflicts, destabilization by non-state armed actors, geopolitical competition between the United States and China, rapid technological advancements, and pressing demands for sustainable development. Economic growth and development remain critical in the context of the DRC's high levels of poverty, debt, and youth unemployment. Stabilizing the eastern regions, especially after the U.N.'s departure, remains a major challenge. Moreover, the DRC is at the center of a new "great game" between superpowers, raising questions about how it will protect and prioritize its interests. Despite these challenges, the DRC possesses abundant natural resources and has a recent track record of GDP growth. The pressing question now is: What are the top priorities for the DRC's leadership in the upcoming year?

On July 24th, the Africa Security Initiative and the Africa Growth Initiative at Brookings will host President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC for an analytical discussion of the country’s institutions, economy, development, and security. The featured discussion will be followed by a panel of experts. 

Viewers can submit questions for President Tshisekedi and the panel via e-mail to events@brookings.edu or via X (formerly Twitter) @BrookingsFP using #DRC.