Speaking at the World Policy Conference (WPC) taking place in Chantilly, France, since April 24, 2026, President Kagame said that inequality between nations continues to fuel conflicts across the world.
He noted that when powerful countries face threats to their interests, they act as they wish without being challenged. However, when poorer nations face similar threats, they are often criticized or even punished.
He stated that “If you look at wealthy countries, when something threatens their interests, they do whatever they want, however they want, and no one questions them. But when poorer countries face even more serious threats, the response is criticism and punishment.”
President Kagame emphasized that poorer nations are often told how they should live, while richer countries decide what is considered right or wrong. He pointed out that Africa has endured such injustice for many years, which should not be the case.
He added that 40 or 50 years ago, the global system was more balanced and did not impose dominance over poorer nations, suggesting that changes are needed today to ensure mutual respect among countries.
Kagame concluded by urging wealthy nations to understand that Africa seeks to solve its own problems while maintaining constructive partnerships, warning that marginalizing the continent will not bring solutions but instead lead to conflict and division.
Photos by @UrugwiroVillage
