New Ceasefire Monitoring and Verification Mechanism Explained

DRC-AFC/M23 February 3, 2026 - The Congolese government and AFC/M23 have adopted the terms of reference for a joint mechanism to monitor and verify the ceasefire agreement, reached on Monday in Doha. The mechanism consists of two complementary components: Ceasefire Monitoring and Verification Mechanism (CMVM) - the supervisory and decision-making body. Extended Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+) - responsible for technical activities and on-the-ground verifications. The CMVM is composed equally of government and rebel representatives, with observers from the African Union, Qatar, the United States, and the ICGLR. MONUSCO also participates. Decisions are made by consensus, requiring both parties to establish a quorum. Meetings are conducted primarily virtually, on a monthly or ad hoc basis. The Joint Monitoring and Verification Committee+ (JMVC+) serves as the operational arm, tasked with: Monitoring, verifying, and reporting on the implementation of the permanent ceasefire under the Doha Framework Agreement. Investigating alleged violations and reporting observed breaches. Monitoring the security and humanitarian situation in affected areas. Promoting compliance with agreed security measures and building confidence between parties. Joint verification teams, appointed by the JMVC Commander, include an equal number of representatives from both sides, with observers where possible. They operate in areas of reported violations, with unrestricted front-line access. MONUSCO facilitates logistics, including transportation and communications. The reporting framework ensures weekly incident summaries, monthly analytical reports, and, where appropriate, public statements on major developments. All information is shared among mechanism members according to impartiality, transparency, and confidentiality principles. The mechanism operates within the framework of commitments to a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive peace process, remaining active until its mandate is fulfilled or the parties decide to terminate it jointly.