Ordinary citizens of the Republic have a mixed view of the agreement: some are optimistic, others doubt that it will influence the conflict. Ultimately, support for the agreement will depend on citizens improving their daily lives. In the Democratic Republic, where some 2.9 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, for example, improved access to aid would offer considerable and tangible benefits that could only be achieved with less conflict and sustained cooperation between armed groups. Beyond the power-sharing agreements, the government has made progress on some provisions of the agreement, but not on others. Preparations are under way for the establishment of the prefectural committees and the technical monitoring committee. The Bilateral Commission between the European Monetary Authority and Cameroon met from 6 to 8 May in Bangui to discuss cross-border cooperation. A new government, which has given armed groups important national and local posts, has proved controversial among a population that wants above all to reduce violence and theft. Some adaptation to powerful groups is probably necessary, but the government and its international allies should establish criteria that would subordinate the mandate of representatives of armed groups to government positions to changes in behavior. . . .