The Joint Monitoring Committee Union-level (JMC-U) was founded in accordance with the terms of the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA), signed by the government and eight ethnic armed groups in October 2015, and recent talks have aimed to establish state and regional-level JMCs.
“We already founded JMC-U. But we also have to set up not only the state-level JMC but also regional-level JMC. After founding these respective JMCs, we will then proceed with the monitoring activities in order for both sides to not engage in fighting. So, for this project, we need US$ 21 million,” said JMC-U Secretary-1 Dr. Shwe Khar.
According to the Myanmar Peace Center (MPC), the monitoring process is estimated to cost US$ 7 to 8 million per year for three years to cover the establishment of monitoring committees and facilities in ceasefire areas, and to prevent territorial conflicts and clashes between Tatmadaw troops and the eight ethnic ceasefire signatories.
JMC-U discussed its projected budgetary needs for the monitoring process with more than 30 potential donors from the international community, including the UN, on January 8 at the MPC. In addition to budget negotiation with international donors, the JMC also intends to approach the Hluttaw (Parliament) for state funding.
According to Dr. Shwe Khar, if fighting breaks out after JMCs are established, the relevant JMC representatives would face penalties. In the event that crimes were committed in ceasefire monitoring areas, representatives would face criminal charges.
The JMC was established within 30 days of the NCA signing in accordance with its terms.
