What's happened
In November 2025, Congo's government and M23 rebels signed a framework agreement in Doha, mediated by Qatar and the US, aiming to outline protocols for future peace negotiations. The deal addresses root causes of conflict, but implementation remains uncertain amid ongoing violence and accusations of violations.
What's behind the headline?
The Doha framework marks a critical diplomatic milestone, but its success hinges on genuine implementation. The agreement's lack of binding clauses and ongoing violence suggest it is more a political gesture than a definitive solution. The involvement of external mediators like Qatar and the US indicates international interest, but the real challenge will be translating protocols into on-the-ground peace. Rwanda's backing of M23 complicates efforts, as Kigali denies direct involvement despite evidence to the contrary. The continued fighting and humanitarian crisis underscore that diplomatic progress alone will not resolve the conflict without concrete actions, including troop withdrawals and addressing root causes. The international community must maintain pressure and support for tangible steps to prevent further escalation and humanitarian disaster.
What the papers say
All Africa highlights the signing of the new peace framework and the ongoing violations despite previous agreements. The New Arab emphasizes the significance of the agreement as a step forward, but notes the slow implementation of protocols and persistent violence. AP News and Reuters detail the ongoing conflict, with both agencies pointing out Rwanda's support for M23 and the challenges in enforcing ceasefire agreements. France 24 underscores the international engagement and the humanitarian toll, while contrasting opinions from sources reveal cautious optimism tempered by the reality of continued hostilities and unfulfilled promises.
How we got here
The conflict in eastern Congo has persisted since 2021, with M23 seizing key cities like Goma and Bukavu, supported by Rwanda. Multiple peace efforts, including agreements in Washington and Doha, have failed to end hostilities. The recent framework aims to set a timeline for negotiations, but key issues remain unresolved, and violence persists.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s the significance of the Congo peace deal and what’s next?
The recent signing of a peace framework in Doha marks a crucial step in Congo’s long-standing conflict. While it signals hope for peace, many questions remain about its impact and future. How effective will this deal be? Who are the key players involved? And how does it compare to previous efforts? Below, we explore these questions and more to help you understand what this peace deal means for Congo and the region.
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What are the broader implications of the Congo peace deal?
The recent signing of a peace framework in Congo marks a significant step toward ending years of conflict. But what does this mean for regional stability, the economy, and international relations? While the deal offers hope, many questions remain about its long-term success and potential risks. Below, we explore the key implications and what they could mean for the future of Congo and the surrounding region.
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What is the current peace effort in Congo about?
The conflict in eastern Congo has been ongoing for years, with recent efforts aiming to bring lasting peace. In November 2025, a significant peace framework was signed in Doha between Congo's government and M23 rebels, mediated by Qatar and the US. This agreement aims to address the root causes of the conflict and set the stage for future negotiations. However, despite this progress, violence continues, and many wonder whether these peace efforts will succeed or face obstacles. Below, we explore the details of the peace process, the challenges involved, and who is involved in shaping Congo's future.
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Can Congo's Peace Deal Hold? Will Lasting Peace Come to Eastern Congo?
In November 2025, Congo's government and M23 rebels signed a new peace framework in Doha, aiming to end years of conflict. But with ongoing violence and accusations of violations, many wonder: Is this peace deal enough to bring lasting peace? What are the chances it will hold, and what role do international players play? Here, we explore the key questions about Congo's fragile peace process and what it means for the region.
More on these topics
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Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is a country located in Western Asia, occupying the small Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.
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The M23 rebellion was an armed conflict in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, that occurred between the March 23 Movement and government forces between 4 April 2012 and 7 November 2013.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.