This chapter outlines a ceasefire design that supports verification-first implementation. It is written as a structure (what must be specified) rather than a final legal text.
Design Goals
A ceasefire architecture should:
be unambiguous (who, where, what actions stop),
be verifiable (observable indicators, reporting rules),
reduce accidental escalation (deconfliction),
include enforcement logic (what happens after violations),
be modular (core text + annexes/SOPs).
Minimum Clauses to Specify
1. Scope and Geography
defined area of application (frontline, buffer zones, airspace)
mapping reference (agreed map annex and coordinates)
rules for disputed or unclear sectors (temporary administration rules)
2. Prohibited and Permitted Actions
Prohibited actions should be enumerated, not implied. Typical categories:
offensive ground advances
artillery/rocket strikes (define calibers/ranges where relevant)
drone strikes and UAV operations (define types and permitted uses)
air operations (define no-fly zones or flight corridors)
mining, sabotage, or strikes on critical infrastructure
Permitted actions should also be explicit:
defensive posture maintenance
medical evacuation and casualty retrieval
humanitarian operations
monitored repair work on protected infrastructure
3. Force Posture and Movement Rules
limits on redeployments near the line
heavy weapons pullback zones (if used)
rules for rotations and resupply
notification requirements for permitted movements
4. Reporting and Notification
required reporting intervals (daily/weekly)
incident reporting format and deadlines
advance notification requirements for specified activities (repairs, convoys)
5. Compliance Measurement and Baselines
establish baseline indicators (e.g., average daily incidents, civilian harm metrics)
define measurement windows (rolling 7-day, 14-day)
specify what constitutes a “major violation” vs “minor incident”
