Elections Between Hope and Fear

Following more than a decade of conflict and destruction, the African Great Lakes are entering a crucial phase. With elections due this year, the transition processes in DRC and Burundi are reaching their final stages. Although both processes remain hugely fragile they could, if well managed, form important building blocks for a more peaceful future for the region. In particular, the future stability of Rwanda is intimately linked to the evolution of its neighbours. Placing too much hope on the effect of the elections would be ill-advised, however, since the road will remain long and rocky. The elections as such should not be seen as an exit strategy for the international community; a high degree of involvement will remain a necessity.