5. Democratic Republic of the Congo (1990s-present)
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has experienced prolonged instability since the 1990s, characterized by cyclical violence, warlordism, and a severe humanitarian crisis. As of 2025, over 28 million people face acute hunger due to escalating conflicts, particularly in the eastern regions (reuters.com). The DRC’s mineral wealth has attracted numerous armed groups vying for control, leading to widespread human rights abuses, including sexual violence and forced displacement. This situation mirrors challenges faced by other mineral-rich failed states, where resource wealth has often fueled conflict and instability.
