Background
New to the story? These explainers give the context behind the headlines — how the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo began, who is fighting, why it has lasted so long, and what is at stake. They are written for newcomers and updated as events develop.
The DR Congo conflict, explained
A plain-language overview of one of the world's deadliest and least-reported conflicts.
A timeline of the DR Congo conflict
The key moments, from independence to today.
Who's who: the forces in eastern Congo
A guide to the armies, rebel groups and militias — and Rwanda's disputed role.
Why Congo's minerals matter
Coltan, cobalt and gold connect a distant war to the phone in your pocket.
DR Congo conflict: frequently asked questions
Short, clear answers to the questions people ask most.