International Verification Commission (Basque Country)

The International Verification Commission (Basque Country), often abbreviated as IVC, was an independent body established in 2011 to verify the permanent ceasefire declared by ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna, Basque Homeland and Freedom) in October 2011. ETA was a Basque separatist armed organization that aimed to create an independent Basque state encompassing territories in Spain and France.

The IVC was composed of international experts with experience in conflict resolution and disarmament processes. It operated with the aim of independently confirming the cessation of ETA’s armed activity and the decommissioning of its weapons. The Commission's work was conducted in secret to protect the anonymity and safety of those involved.

The IVC's principal role was to verify the disarmament process. Over several years, the Commission engaged with ETA, the Basque government, and other relevant actors to facilitate the complete disposal of ETA’s arsenal. The process involved identifying, cataloging, and ultimately sealing weapons and explosives. The Commission released several reports detailing its findings and progress.

The existence and activities of the IVC were controversial, particularly in Spain. The Spanish government initially refused to officially recognize or cooperate with the Commission, arguing that direct negotiations with ETA were unacceptable and that the organization should unconditionally surrender to Spanish authorities. However, the Commission played a significant role in building confidence in the ceasefire and disarmament process.

In April 2017, the IVC announced that ETA had completely decommissioned its weapons arsenal. This marked a significant step towards a lasting peace in the Basque Country. Following the disarmament verification, the IVC concluded its mandate, having accomplished its primary objective. The complete disbandment of ETA followed in 2018.