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Why are natural resources good for autocratic governments in the DRC in Saudi Arabia

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Answered by GPT 3.5
Natural resources are good for autocratic governments in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Saudi Arabia for a few reasons:

1. Control and Power: Autocratic governments thrive on control and power, and natural resources such as oil, minerals, and timber give them immense power over the economy and the people. They can control the extraction, production, and distribution of these resources, allowing them to maintain a grip on the country's wealth and resources.

2. Revenue Generation: Natural resources are a major source of revenue for both the DRC and Saudi Arabia. These governments can extract and sell these resources to generate revenue, which they can use to fund their operations, maintain control, and finance development projects. This revenue can also be used to bolster their military and security apparatus, further solidifying their hold on power.

3. Patronage and Rent-Seeking: Autocratic governments in these countries often use natural resources as a means of rewarding loyal supporters and maintaining patronage networks. By granting access to lucrative resource contracts and licenses, they can secure the loyalty of key individuals and groups, further consolidating their power.

4. Lack of Accountability: The abundance of natural resources often allows autocratic governments to operate without being held accountable for their actions. They can rely on resource wealth to maintain their grip on power, suppress dissent, and evade accountability for human rights abuses and corruption.

Overall, natural resources provide autocratic governments in the DRC and Saudi Arabia with the means to consolidate power, generate revenue, maintain control, and sustain patronage networks, making them essential for their continued rule.
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