Africa: The Politics of 'Terrorism' As a Designation in Eastern DR Congo

[African Arguments] Words matter in conflict, and few carry more consequences than 'terrorist'. Overused for decades, applied to insurgents, separatists, and state enemies alike, the label has been stretched to the point that it has become analytically meaningless. Yet the problem runs deeper than overuse. State actors may apply the charge of 'terrorist' as a justification for excessive force against its enemies. This gives them powerful incentives to keep using the label in pursuit of their own agenda.