A CONVERSATION WITH DR. DENIS MUKWEGE, 2018 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE LAUREATE - The event took place during a period rich in diplomatic events, between the opening of the United Nations General Assembly this month and the U.S. Africa Leaders’ Summit in December during a critical period marked by post-COVID-19 challenges and the consequences of the war in Ukraine. For Africa, food insecurity and a increase of energy prices strengthen the challenges faced by the continent while the investment opportunities and the global powers’ competition stress the power of attraction of the continent. As for the DRC, the country is experiencing a turning-point, internally with the ongoing tensions on the democratic front and externally with its neighbors and their role in the East.

The Atlantic Council’s Africa Center was pleased to welcome Dr. Denis Mukwege, whose country – one of the largest and least developed countries in Africa – occupies a particular role in a strategic region heightened by strong instability. He shared his vision and his expectations of the international community, including the United States, given the attacks in the East of the DRC in a continuously unstable neighborhood.

The 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly offers a powerful platform to address Congolese challenges and to draw attention on Dr. Mukwege’s advocacy for human dignity and peace. From the Panzi foundation to the prestigious international awards, his action has a worldwide impact.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 09/19/22