Advancing United States Foreign Policy Through Women’s Political Participation in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Posted: 20 Jun 2018

Date Written: June 4, 2018

Abstract

The 2018 Marvel Movie “Black Panther” depicts an economically and technologically advanced country in Africa. The fictional country known as Wakanda boasts of vast mineral resources. Hidden from the rest of the world, the country has been able to utilize its rich resources for the benefit of its people. In addition, the Dora Milage, (women amazon warriors) form part of the highly respected security forces in the country. The highly prosperous country has undertaken steps to involve women in leadership, peace and security. The Democratic Republic of Congo (“DRC”) depicts a “Wakanda” that could be. The DRC has unmatched natural resource wealth, not limited to cobalt, copper, gold, diamonds, and petroleum. The country also has abundant water resources, sufficient for consumption and agriculture. In spite of women’s significant activism, they have had nearly no role in decision-making. In the DRC, women continue to suffer discriminatory practices due to years of dictatorship and political instability. As a result, the advancement of women rights has taken a slow trajectory. At the core of the United States, foreign policy is gender equality. Through the Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review (“QDDR”) and the National Security Strategy, the U.S government recognizes gender equality as one of the major components of its foreign policy. As such, the U.S government has stated that in order to achieve lasting peace and solutions, women must form part of the leadership and decision-making processes. The DRC is not an exception.

Suggested Citation

Mutiso, Prudence, Advancing United States Foreign Policy Through Women’s Political Participation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (June 4, 2018). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3190549

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