Belgium & Democratic Republic of the Congo

Belgium: Subject of the conference's demands for apology and reparations; faces reputational pressure and potential future financial obligations.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: One of the main former colonies seeking reparations and archive access; conference amplifies its claims.

Belgium: Belgium, through the Royal Museum for Central Africa, is facilitating the digitization and eventual public release of colonial-era geological archives, which could improve its diplomatic relations and economic ties with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: The Democratic Republic of the Congo stands to gain significant economic opportunities and strengthen its geoscientific sovereignty through the digitization of these historical geological records, which could identify new mineral deposits and attract investment.

Belgium: Belgium>>> is the former colonial power of the Democratic Republic of the Congo>>> and is facing ongoing legal action from the Patrice Lumumba>>> family regarding its responsibility in his assassination.

Democratic Republic of the Congo: The Democratic Republic of the Congo>>> was the nation where Patrice Lumumba>>> served as prime minister, and his assassination is a significant event in its post-colonial history.