Representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have held the fifth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM), focusing on efforts to implement the Washington Accords and address security challenges in eastern DRC.
The meeting, held on July 15–16, 2026, at the U.S. Mission in Geneva, brought together representatives from the two countries alongside officials from the United States, Qatar, and Togo, serving as the African Union mediator and the African Union Commission.
The JSCM is part of a broader framework established to support the implementation of commitments aimed at reducing tensions between Rwanda and the DRC and promoting lasting peace in the Great Lakes region.
During the discussions, the parties assessed the security situation in eastern DRC and worked towards a shared understanding of developments on the ground.
Rwanda and the DRC reaffirmed their commitment to the rapid implementation of the Washington Accords, including advancing measures related to the neutralisation of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the disengagement of forces, alongside the lifting of defensive measures.
The FDLR, a rebel group with historical links to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, has remained one of the key security concerns cited in discussions between Kigali and Kinshasa.
Both countries have previously accused each other of failing to address security threats emanating from armed groups operating in eastern DRC, a region that has experienced decades of conflict involving multiple armed factions.
To build confidence and ensure accountability, participants agreed to explore possible verification mechanisms that would help track progress and support the implementation of commitments under the Washington Accords.
The mechanism is expected to improve transparency between the parties and provide a clearer assessment of whether agreed security measures are being fulfilled.
Officials also emphasised the importance of regular information sharing to maintain an accurate picture of developments in eastern DRC and prevent misunderstandings that could undermine the peace process.
The meeting also included a briefing from the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) on its disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration programme.
Discussions focused on how MONUSCO’s work can contribute to the objectives of the Washington Accords, particularly through efforts aimed at the repatriation and reintegration of FDLR members.
International partners, including the United States, Qatar, the African Union and Togo, were recognised for their role in supporting dialogue between Rwanda and the DRC.
Rwanda and the DRC described the Washington Accords as a historic opportunity to address longstanding security challenges and create conditions for peace, stability and economic development across the Great Lakes region.
The parties agreed to reconvene in the coming weeks to review progress and assess further steps required to advance implementation.
The peace process comes amid continued international efforts to end years of instability in eastern DRC, where armed conflicts have displaced millions of people and affected trade, investment and regional cooperation.
