On Saturday, November 15, 2025, a significant step was taken toward peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Doha, Qatar, the Congolese government and the M23 rebels signed a framework agreement aimed at establishing lasting peace. After years of violence that have claimed thousands of lives and displaced hundreds of thousands, this initiative marks a decisive turning point in the attempt to end the conflict.
A major breakthrough has been achieved in the quest for peace in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. On Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, the Congolese government and the M23 rebels signed a framework agreement aimed at establishing lasting peace after years of deadly violence. This step marks a turning point for a region ravaged by conflict, mass displacement, and a persistent humanitarian crisis.
The peace agreement signed in Doha between the Congolese government and the AFCM 23 is a step-by-step agreement because, in principle, we were expecting the signing of a final agreement that should have been concluded before the burial of the signature of the agreement signed in Washington last June between the Congolese government and the government of Rwanda. However, instead, we got a framework agreement, which will lead to the signing of several protocols to follow.
The framework agreement is based on eight key protocols, two of which have already reached consensus: the establishment of a mechanism to monitor de-escalation efforts and a system for the exchange of detainees. Discussions must now focus on humanitarian access, military disengagement, the return of displaced populations, and national reconciliation. This process follows diplomatic progress made since July, notably the Declaration of Principles for a permanent ceasefire and the creation, in October, of a ceasefire verification body. International partners (African Union, United States, and Qatari mediation) maintain their support.
This is a first step that shows the conflicting parties can dialogue and make progress, but it is not yet enough. It is simply an important step that will lead to others, which will continue in Africa.
Even though it is not yet a comprehensive peace agreement, this negotiation framework represents a significant step toward reducing hostilities in eastern DRC. The M23 still controls large territories in North Kivu and South Kivu, including Goma and Bukavu, a situation that has caused over 7 million displaced people and worsened access to essential services for nearly 27.8 million people facing food insecurity. The upcoming negotiations will be crucial in transforming this diplomatic momentum into concrete progress on the ground.