Official: Belgian colonialism left lasting economic, social impact on Congo

Belgium’s colonial policies contributed to lasting economic and social problems in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Esther Kile, an assistant for Youth Programs at the Congolese National Commission for UNESCO, said on August 21.

Speaking at an international conference in Baku titled “101 Years of Belgian Colonial Injustices and the Struggle for Reparations,” organised by the Baku Initiative Group, Kile noted that an externally dependent and outward-oriented economic system had developed in the DRC during the colonial period and continued to affect the country, Caliber.Az reports via local media. 

“This system is still based on the exploitation of resources that were created during that period. Social polarisation, racial discrimination and prejudice, including relations between colonial administrators and the local population, are also consequences of that era. The restriction of the rights of numerous citizens led to a loss of respect for the principle of equality. The traces of this situation can still be clearly seen today,” Kile said.

Kile called for greater support to help the DRC preserve its history and ensure it is accurately passed on to future generations.

“Our country has taken important steps toward improving its legal preparedness. In particular, work has been carried out to legally identify the crimes and human rights violations committed by Belgium during the colonial period, as well as to adopt relevant conventions. We cannot change the past. However, we must choose the right direction for change in the future. We must prepare our influence and activities for the days ahead. We should be prepared for anything that may happen and constantly work to improve ourselves,” she said.

By Sabina Mammadli