Believe it or not, the Congo is home to the world's largest war. Over 6 million people have died since 1996. To put this number in perspective, there has been more deaths in the Congo than Jewish victims of the Holocaust. An additional 2 million people have been displaced form their homes. Even now, 45,000 people die every month as a result of this conflict.
Why is this happening?!? Besides inescapable factors of the past (colonization, a corrupt government, African wars), this conflict is now considered a resource war. The Congo's natural wealth (in terms of natural resources) is considered to be worth 27 trillion dollars. Minerals needed for the production of cell phones, mp3 players, computers, digital cameras and etc. are found in the Congo's vast natural environment. Sadly due to high demands of globalization, there are not many enforced regulations to protect the Congo. Large scale companies to local leaders are guilty of stripping the Congo of precious natural resources and stirring up conflict.
How do you help? Purchase a whistle and tell everyone you know! The more people that are aware of the situation, the better. The consumers determine what products companies produce. Ethical production of technologies is possible. We can put a halt to this resource war!
For further information and to support the cause, visit: www.fallingwhistles.com - This past week, I actually met this organization. Great people, with a truthful message.
Sources: www.fallingwhistles.com and Falling Whistles' literature
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