Social and Economic Network Dynamics in Eastern DRC Conflict Zones

Social networks have a strong impact on economic interactions since they determine how information and resources are exchanged in a community. These high levels of homophily can enhance social cohesiveness and trust, which is important in promoting economic exchange and cooperation within the groups in areas of conflict such as Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In addition, people with high centrality and brokerage capacities are strategic in bridging different groups and sectors, improving economic linkages and robustness. This paper aims to explore the nature of social networks and economic exchange in the conflict-affected areas of Eastern DRC while focusing on homophily, centrality, and multilevel brokerage. By administering questionnaires to civilians, demobilized combatants, and active combatants, the research collects data on social relations and economic engagements. The results also show that all the subgroups are highly homogeneous; however, the most central and capable of brokerage are the active combatants. Blau’s H index shows how individuals can mediate between different armed groups and economic sectors, which indicates their promise for conflict and economic mediation. This study highlights the importance of comprehending social network structures in order to design interventions to foster social connectedness and economic stability in conflict-prone regions.