What Makes a Good Peace Agreement Work?
A peace agreement is a promise between two or more groups to stop fighting and start talking. But not all peace deals work. For peace to last, some things must be included in the agreement.
This blog explains the 4 things every peace agreement needs and looks at how the recent DRC-Rwanda deal matches up.
1. Clear Rules and Goals for Peace
Every clear peace agreement must say exactly what each side agrees to do. This can include:
- Stopping attacks
- Pulling back troops
- Sharing power
- Protecting civilians
In the DRC-Rwanda peace deal, both countries agreed to respect each other’s borders and stop supporting armed groups. These are clear goals, but some people ask: Are they doing what they promised?
To work, a peace deal must be written clearly, so both sides know what is expected.
2. Trust and Good Communication
Peace can’t last without peace agreement comnmunication. Both sides must talk openly and often. They should have regular meetings to solve problems before they grow.
The DRC-Rwanda deal includes talks between leaders, but people say there’s still mistrust. Some groups feel left out. A strong peace agreement should build trust, not just between leaders, but between people too.
3. Inclusion of All Voices
A good inclusive peace agreement listens to everyone – not just presidents and soldiers. Women, youth, refugees, and community leaders must also be heard. If some people are left out, they may not support the deal.
In the DRC-Rwanda deal, it’s not clear if all groups were included. Some local communities and civil society groups say they want to be part of the peace process too.
An inclusive peace agreement builds unity and long-term success.
4. Follow-Up and Accountability
Peace is not a one-time event. There must be peace agreement follow-up to make sure both sides do what they said. This can include:
- Regular peace reports
- Independent monitoring
- Penalties for breaking the deal
The DRC-Rwanda agreement still lacks strong follow-up systems. This makes it hard to know if promises are being kept.
Without accountability, trust can break, and violence may return.
Top Peace Agreements in Africa That Worked
Why Rwanda Plays a Big Role in Regional Peace
What Caused the DRC-Rwanda Conflict?
How the DRC-Rwanda Deal Measures Up
The DRC-Rwanda peace agreement is a step in the right direction. It shows that both sides want to avoid war and solve problems through dialogue. But there is still a lot of work to do.
Let’s look at how the deal performs on the 4 key points:
| What Every Peace Agreement Needs | Does the DRC-Rwanda Deal Have It? |
|---|---|
| Clear rules and goals | ✔ Yes – but needs more action |
| Good communication | ⚠ Some – trust still low |
| Inclusion of all voices | ❌ Not yet – needs improvement |
| Follow-up and accountability | ❌ Still weak or missing |
For peace to grow, all these things must be strong.
Why Peace in DRC and Rwanda Matters to the Region
When DRC and Rwanda make peace, it helps the whole Great Lakes region. Trade improves, people feel safer, and refugees can return home. That’s why the world is watching the DRC-Rwanda peace efforts closely.
Peace between these two nations could help bring peace to places like Goma, North Kivu, and other conflict areas.
Conclusion: Peace Needs More Than Just Promises
Peacebuilding in DRC and Rwanda is not easy, but it is possible. Leaders must be honest. Communities must be involved. And there must be follow-up to ensure peace is real.
If all 4 parts are included, the DRC-Rwanda peace agreement has a chance to change lives. Without them, peace may not last.
Let’s hope this deal becomes an example for other African peace processes.
United Nations – Peacekeeping in the DRC
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