Understanding the Congo-Rwanda conflict
Understanding the Congo-Rwanda conflict
Politics and geopolitics

Thu. November 20, 6:30PM

Understanding the Congo-Rwanda conflict

Tracing the roots of one of Central Africa’s deadliest yet overlooked conflicts.

The Congo-Rwanda conflict started in 1994, in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide, but its consequences are still felt today. In January 2025, a new crisis arose with the M23 rebels capturing Goma and Bukavu, intensifying tensions in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. Armed militias, cross-border politics, and international interests continue to shape a humanitarian crisis that often escapes global attention.


Colette Braeckman, former Le Soir correspondent and Central Africa specialist, will explore the history, stakes, and international dimensions of the conflict. Joined by journalist and Table des Voyageurs host Caroline Chapeaux, she will examine the stakes, the diplomatic entanglements, and possible pathways toward resolution.


An event to gain a clear, grounded understanding of the region today — and a perspective on what comes next.

speaker

Colette Braeckman

A long-time reporter for the International Service of Le Soir, Colette Braeckman covers African news, particularly Central Africa, Rwanda, Burundi and, above all, the Democratic Republic of Congo, conducting reports, investigations and political analyses in the region.

moderator

Caroline Chapeaux

Caroline Chapeaux is a Belgian television, radio and print journalist. A tireless traveller, she is also Travel Designer at Looking for Charly, an agency specialising in creating tailor-made itineraries around the world. An anthropologist by training, she travels the world in search of rare experiences and exceptional addresses. She regularly moderates debates and hosts La Table des Voyageurs at TheMerode.
Start
Thu. November 20, 6:30PM
End
Thu. November 20, 9:00PM
Format
TheMerode Talks
Language
French (BE) / Français (BE)
Guest allowed?
Yes, 1 per member

Address

Event
Place Poelaert, 6
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Parking
Parking Poelaert, Place Poelaert 1000 Brussels

Detailed programme

Welcome
Thu. November 20, 6:30PM
Conversation and Q&A
Thu. November 20, 7:00PM
Networking
Thu. November 20, 8:00PM
End
Thu. November 20, 9:00PM