The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and rival M23 rebels have pledged to protect civilians and ease humanitarian aid deliveries under a new agreement reached after days of negotiations in Switzerland.
The deal, announced Saturday in a joint statement shared by the United States Department of State, follows five days of talks aimed at resolving a conflict that has persisted for years despite multiple ceasefire attempts.
According to the statement, both sides agreed to refrain from actions that could disrupt the delivery of humanitarian assistance in conflict affected areas. The commitment includes ensuring safe passage for aid organizations and improving access to medical services for the wounded and sick.
The agreement also emphasizes the protection of civilians, a key concern as violence has intensified in eastern Congo. Both parties pledged not to target noncombatants and to uphold basic humanitarian standards.
In addition, the government and M23 agreed to release prisoners within 10 days, a move described as a confidence building measure intended to support ongoing negotiations.
Ceasefire monitoring and ongoing conflict
The two sides also signed a memorandum of understanding establishing a ceasefire monitoring mechanism. The system will oversee surveillance, verification and reporting related to the implementation of a permanent ceasefire.
The mechanism is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring accountability, as previous agreements have failed to halt fighting on the ground. Mediators hope this structured oversight will strengthen compliance and reduce violations.
Talks were held in the Swiss town of Montreux and included representatives from Qatar, the United States, Switzerland, the African Union Commission and Togo, which is serving as the African Union mediator.
Fighting between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group has escalated since 2021, with the rebels seizing territory across eastern regions. The group is widely reported to be backed by Rwanda, a claim that has fueled regional tensions.
Despite a United States brokered peace agreement signed in December, clashes have continued. Recent reports indicate that violence has spread to the highland areas of South Kivu, further worsening the humanitarian situation.
Last week, Human Rights Watch accused both sides of obstructing aid deliveries and preventing civilians from fleeing conflict zones. The organization warned of deteriorating conditions in affected communities.
“Civilians in South Kivu highlands are facing a dire humanitarian crisis and live in fear of abuses by all parties,” said Clementine de Montjoye, a senior researcher with the group.
The renewed commitments come as international mediators intensify efforts to push both sides toward a sustainable resolution. While the latest agreement marks a step forward, observers caution that its success will depend on consistent implementation and monitoring.
With millions affected by displacement and insecurity, the stakes remain high as Congo and M23 attempt to translate promises into lasting peace on the ground.
