This research brief explores how conventional measurement and evaluation (M&E) systems in peacebuilding and reintegration often reinforce power imbalances by prioritizing donor-defined, easily quantifiable indicators. These approaches tend to obscure local realities, overlook long-term change, and distort interventions. In response, the brief calls for participatory M&E practices that center community knowledge, reflect lived experiences, and enable adaptive learning. It highlights practical tools like GAIN and PMERL to show how collaborative frameworks can strengthen impact and accountability. It also outlines a flexible, context-sensitive roadmap for implementing participatory M&E across all phases of a project cycle.