Cobalt, a social experiment in support of the SDGs

The Cobalt collective offers a social experiment based on the book “Democratic Republic of Cobalt.” This project is both a continuation of the project initiated in Brussels and Wallonia, and an extension of its objectives, thanks to the DRC-Belgium collaboration.

Financial partner

Background

Cobalt mining in the DRC is a complex issue that touches on the economy, the environment, and human rights. This metal, which is essential for batteries and modern technologies, is extracted under often disastrous conditions. Not only does mining destroy the environment, but it also fuels armed conflict and abuses against local populations, particularly women and children.

Large mining companies have an important responsibility, but the lack of oversight and regulations leads to illegal and unsustainable practices. Despite the wealth generated, local communities see little of the economic benefits.

Faced with these challenges, international cooperation is essential. The Cobalt project is the result of exchanges between several actors, initiated by the collective’s involvement in a Global Citizenship & Solidarity Education (ECMS) project on the campus of the Free University of Brussels (ULB).

Location

Brussels (ULB) in Belgium

Lubumbashi (UNILU) in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Objectives

The project aims to encourage citizen mobilization and action, whether through active involvement in supporting roles or simply through participation. It raises awareness of the role each of us plays and our ability to influence systems to make them more inclusive and sustainable. Every individual and collective action that contributes to the adaptation and resilience of populations must be encouraged and reinforced.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Impacts

All participants are encouraged to reflect on the relationship between the population and its territory, to question consumption patterns and North-South interdependencies. Participants also adopt new attitudes with a view to greater climate and social justice.

Beneficiaries

Students from both universities and other higher education institutions.
The communities around the city of Lubumbashi to which the students will provide support.

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Actions

The Cobalt collective offers a social experience based on the book République démocratique du Cobalt (Democratic Republic of Cobalt). This experience, which will take place at both ULB and UNILU, is intended to be participatory, reflective, and sensory. The public is immersed in a situation where they learn that their territory will be transformed to make way for a project presented as being in the public interest, involving possible relocations and the destruction of the place or natural space surrounding it. This work encourages the public to take a critical look at and reflect on the extractivist dynamics of our society, but also to awaken a sense of global citizenship and stimulate the power to act in the face of social and ecological challenges.

In a second phase, the project will be continued and extended to the various communities living around the city of Lubumbashi, particularly those living near mining sites.