Affleck Raises Profile of DRC on Nightline
June 27th, 2008 at 3:38 pm | posted by Virginia Simmons
ABC Nightline followed Ben Affleck to the Democratic Republic of Congo where he shared his experience learning about the most savage war since WWI.
Below we have the full story, as broadcast on ABC last night, broken up into 4 clips.
More than 4 million have died in the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the fighting continues today. As Ben explains, it’s a place where atrocities happen every day, but most people don’t even know.
Ben:
“This is my third visit to the region this year. I’ve been coming here to learn about the Congo because I don’t want to involve myself without first understanding what I’m getting involved in. Learning here means meeting with war lords (some accused of atrocities) spending time in refugee camps, talking with aid workers, meeting with those whose everyday is a struggle to survive. I’m not affiliated with any aid agency. I’m not any kind kind of ambassador. I’m not going to give you a history lesson. Among other reasons, I wouldn’t be qualified. I simply want to share what I’ve seen.”
-Virginia Simmons
June 28th, 2008 at 1:09 am
An excellent report, which cries for a new set of priorities by the U.S. and international community. The images remind me so much of northern Uganda (next door to eastern Congo) just a short time ago. Partnering with civil society organizations (like Invisible Children) and individual heroes there has accomplished much. This is needed in The Congo - where warlords have ruled with impunity for too long. I cannot praise Ben and the team which is working on this issue - for pointing the way. Let’s follow!