The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Entry into the East African Community (EAC): Its Significance for Regional Integration
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Date
2023-09
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
In an era marked by the imperative of post-independence development and the pursuit of national and regional progress, the Democratic Republic of the Congo's (DRC) admission into the East African Community (EAC) emerges as a laudable step towards bolstering regional integration. This study asserts that the DRC's entry into the EAC represents a significant milestone in enhancing regional cohesion and economic cooperation. Nevertheless, this promising endeavor is confronted by governance challenges both within the DRC and among EAC member states and other Regional Economic Communities (RECs), which, if left unaddressed, could erode the long-term optimism surrounding this integration effort. This study sheds light on the opportunities and challenges arising from the DRC's multiple memberships in RECs and common markets, ultimately emphasizing the need for a vigilant and concerted effort to harness the true transformative power of regional integration. This study used the descriptive research design to describe the issues relating to the strengths and setbacks of regional integration and was qualitative. After data collection, the research shows that DRC's multiple memberships to RECs and common markets present sustainable economic development opportunities. However, challenges require efforts and attention for every member state specifically. The EAC's regional integration efforts show progress and impact, but continued tracking is needed. Through a lens that combines neo-functionalism and intergovernmentalism theories, this research critically examined the multifaceted dynamics of regional integration within the EAC and the implications of the DRC's admission. It underscores the importance of stability, coordination, and cooperation as pivotal factors in realizing the full potential of successful regional integration. At the end of the study, a few recommendations were given by the researcher for further studies.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
Keywords
Democratic Republic of the Congo, East African Community, Regional Integration
Citation
Basema, A. L., (2023).The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Entry into the East African Community (EAC): Its Significance for Regional Integration: Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences