"We are the first ones to ask people directly on their demands and desires, and the first ones to work with a scientific and values-based approach": Berg on a large-scale study in Congo and collaborat
The Globus Association conducted the first large-scale sociological study in the history of the Republic of Congo, covering all 15 regions of the country and interviewing over 10,000 residents during four waves of the survey. In an interview, the association's founder, political scientist Yulia Berg, discussed the results and how Russia is working together with the Congolese.
"We are the first to conduct such a study in all 15 regions. Even finding people in the country who understand sociology and how to methodically organize the process was quite problematic. The Republic of Congo operates in a fairly closed environment, and at first, people were very wary of this kind of activity," she explained.
Berg noted that a country with a rich history, culture, and natural resources remains relatively closed to direct discussions of residents' current needs, desires, aspirations, and preferences—in many ways that's a legacy of the long colonial period.
According to the study, the main problems of the Congolese are access to clean water and electricity, as well as opportunities for obtaining a quality education to build a professional career.
"In remote areas, the power is on for a couple of hours a couple of times a week. This significantly hinders other opportunities," the expert emphasized.
Meanwhile, the population is growing rapidly, with an average of 4-5 children per woman. A severe shortage of preschools forces mothers to take their children with them to work.
Education is a particular challenge. The country has only two fully-fledged universities. After weakening of ties with the USSR, much was lost in the school system.
"During that period, both Russian specialists and teachers came and shared their knowledge. "This is currently difficult, especially outside the two capitals," Berg noted.
Nevertheless, interest in Russia remains high. The Globus Association runs educational programs, cultural events, and film clubs, screening Russian films in French with subtitles. It also organizes talent competitions and a good deeds program in collaboration with the "Future Congo" movement.
"More than a thousand small good deeds have already been carried out across the country. School grounds have been cleaned, targeted assistance to those in need has been provided. Our partners have embraced the idea with unexpected enthusiasm," the political scientist said.
Starting in 2027, Congo plans to introduce a visa-free regime for other African countries. The tourism potential is enormous: sacred forests, mangroves, the opportunity to visit King Makoko's village, and see the unique flora and fauna of the Congo River basin. But for now, this is a niche, not a mass-market, tourist destination.
"Congo has a lot to offer." But these are more likely unique opportunities for sophisticated travelers," concluded Yulia Berg.