DRC and M23 Agree to Peace Roadmap in Switzerland

The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) agreed to a roadmap for peace negotiations following five days of talks in Switzerland from August 17 to August 21, 2026. The agreement establishes sequenced timelines to implement the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which was originally signed in November 2025 under Qatari mediation.

Key outcomes of the meetings include the operationalization of the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+), the establishment of its Secretariat, and a standardized method for reporting ceasefire violations. A reconnaissance mission supported by MONUSCO took place on August 20, preceding the first EJVM+ ceasefire verification mission scheduled for August 24 in Minembwe, South Kivu.

Despite the diplomatic progress, fighting continues in North and South Kivu. M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka accused Congolese coalition forces of using kamikaze drones against civilians in Mukoko and Nyamabuguma on August 23, stating, "These bombings caused civilian casualties and significant damage to civilian infrastructure." The parties remain divided over the release of detainees, sanctions against M23, and the timing of political reforms.

The negotiations were supported by the Government of Qatar, the United States, the Republic of Togo, Switzerland, and the African Union Commission.