Peter Eichstaedt

Going behind the headlines and deep into the brutal world of the Congo, this expose examines why eastern Congo is the most dangerous place on the planet. While the Western world takes for granted its creature comforts such as cell phones or computers, five million Congolese needlessly die in the quest for the valuable minerals that make those technologies work. Much of the war-torn country has largely become lawless, overrun by warlords who exploit and murder the population for their own gain. Delving into the history of the former Belgian colony, this book exposes the horror of day-to-day life in the Congo, largely precipitated by colonial exploitation and internal strife after gaining independence. It offers not only a view into the dire situation but also examines how the Western world, a part of the problem, can become a part of the solution. (Google books)… (més)

Outstanding look at the "inside story" of the internal war in Uganda. Its genesis and continuance are in the search for power and the lack of concern for victims of violence. The perpetrators (on all sides) are aided by a culture of resignation to fate and lack of weapons among the people victimized by the war. Foreign aid designed to help the victims is subject to the law of unintended but predictable consequences; money and goods are diverted both to the distributors' personal gain, and to the rebels through theft, very little reaching its intended destination. Media coverage illustrates the selective conscience of the intelligentsia and politicians of all countries. Excellent for discussion: why do people do such evil to each other? Fear is a powerful motivator. Calling something "Christian" doesn't make it so. Ex-rebel on p.101: "When you are with [Kony], you cannot see the bad thing that is being done." Other groups have a vested interest in continuing to fight even when they claim to want peace. The rebel groups give cover to other gangs of robber-killers; the army also perpetrates atrocities.… (més)