Representatives from the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Alliance Fleuve Congo/March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), along with officials from Qatar, the United States, Togo, the African Union Commission, and Switzerland announced on Apr. 18 that they made significant progress toward finalizing a protocol on Humanitarian Access and Judicial Protection during meetings held April 13 to April 17 in Montreux, Switzerland.
The discussions focused on implementing commitments under the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed in November 2025. The talks are seen as an important step toward improving humanitarian conditions for civilians affected by conflict in eastern DRC.
According to a joint statement released after the meetings, "The Government of the DRC and AFC/M23 (the Parties) agreed on the critical importance of ensuring life-saving humanitarian assistance for the people of eastern DRC and made substantial progress toward conclusion of a protocol on Humanitarian Access and Judicial Protection." The parties also committed to complying with international humanitarian law, human rights law, refugee law, and principles outlined in the DRC constitution.
Both sides agreed to protect essential resources such as food supplies, water infrastructure, telecommunications services, hospitals, schools, and other objects vital to civilian survival. They also recognized that humanitarian assistance should include food provision, health care services, shelter support as well as activities aimed at protecting civilians from violence or abuse. The statement noted that "the protection of civilians remains paramount during the conduct of hostilities," including safeguarding women and children.
The agreement includes provisions for respecting local responders' safety; preventing diversion or pillaging of aid; facilitating safe passage for humanitarian convoys; maintaining essential services like healthcare and education; ensuring impartial delivery based solely on need without discrimination; enabling rapid medical evacuation; supporting functioning healthcare facilities through logistical cooperation with impartial organizations; and taking into account any impact measures may have on civilian populations.
In addition to these steps toward improved access for aid organizations, representatives from both parties signed a memorandum with regional partners operationalizing an Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+). This allows surveillance teams under a Ceasefire Oversight mechanism established by previous agreements to begin monitoring compliance with ceasefire terms. Initial verification missions are expected within one week using logistical support from MONUSCO. Both sides also agreed within ten days to release prisoners according to procedures set out last September.
The joint statement concluded: "The Parties are committed to maintaining momentum in the peace process...and expediting negotiations on remaining protocols." Gratitude was expressed towards all mediators—Qatar, United States, Switzerland—as well as Togo's mediation role via African Union channels—and international partners including MONUSCO—for their continued support.
