Paper short abstract:

Goma as urban hotspot of a war which marks DRC for more than 15 years, brings youth and adults alike together in a constant negotiation about normality in times of crisis. I will illustrate the heterogeneous living realities of youth without neglecting its impact on the intergenerational contract.

Paper long abstract:

Goma is one of the urban hotspots of a war which marks Eastern DR Congo for more than 15 years, bringing youth and adults alike together in a constant negotiation about normality in times of crisis. In my PhD project I leave the dichotomy between victim and perpetrator behind and proceed from conceiving youth as analysts of their war torn environment. How do youth themselves perceive and judge their positions, opportunities and perspectives while trying to establish an order within their social worlds?

Drawing on empirical data from 13month of ethnographic fieldwork in Goma (January-December 2008, June-September 2009), I illustrate the heterogeneous living realities of youth without neglecting its impact on the intergenerational contract. I will discuss youth's experiences, hopes and imaginations in a context of uncertainty and therewith contribute to highlighting their often ignored, creative potential as social actors