Calls for Major Football Clubs to Reconsider Visit Rwanda Sponsorships Amid Crisis
The Democratic Republic of Congo has called on Arsenal, PSG, and Bayern Munich to end their sponsorship deals with Visit Rwanda due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The conflict, exacerbated by M23 rebels and suspected Rwandan military support, raises ethical concerns about the funding sources of these sponsorships. DR Congo’s Foreign Minister emphasizes the need for these clubs to act responsibly in light of the situation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has urged prominent football clubs Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Paris St-Germain to terminate their sponsorship agreements with Visit Rwanda amidst a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the country. The appeal follows the capture of Goma by M23 rebels and the displacement of over 400,000 individuals this year, as reported by the United Nations refugee agency. DR Congo’s Foreign Minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, has expressed concerns about the morality of these sponsorships, linking them to potential funding from illicit mineral trade in occupied regions of her country.
The Visit Rwanda campaign has effectively raised the international profile of Rwanda; however, it has faced criticism for serving as a vehicle for ‘sportswashing’—a strategy to improve the country’s global reputation amidst serious human rights allegations. Arsenal’s partnership commenced in 2018, worth over £10 million annually, followed by PSG the subsequent year, and Bayern Munich’s five-year agreement beginning in 2023. Meanwhile, other international sporting events are being set to take place in Rwanda, drawing further attention to the nation.
The ongoing crisis in eastern DR Congo and the conflict involving Rwandan-backed M23 rebels has prompted calls for Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and PSG to reconsider their associations with Visit Rwanda. As the situation worsens, concerns arise regarding the morality of sustaining partnerships that could inadvertently support or obscure Rwanda’s controversial governmental practices. The dialogue surrounding these sponsorships highlights the intersection of sports, ethics, and international relations in the face of humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
