Interview

What was behind the killing of the Italian ambassador to DRC?

Peer Schouten on the many factors that may have led up to this tragic event
Rome, Funeral of the Italian diplomat in the, Congo, Luca Attanasio. Photo: Sipa USA/Alamy Live News
Rome, Funeral of the Italian diplomat in the, Congo, Luca Attanasio. Photo: Sipa USA/Alamy Live News

On February 23, the Italian ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luca Attanasio, his bodyguard Vittorio Iacovacci and their driver Mustapha Milambo were killed in eastern Congo. Questions are being asked as to who did it and why. These quickly lead to a murky terrain. 

Based on his ongoing research in eastern Congo, DIIS researcher Peer Schouten was asked by 'The Conversation' to explore some of the factors behind it. He explains that this tragic event is only one instance in a widespread, and extremely complex, political economy of violence that affects the lives of millions in the country. 

Read the full article to find out which factors may have led up to this tragic event.
 

Region
Congo Italy

DIIS Experts

Peer Schouten
Peace and violence
Senior Researcher
+45 32698654