UN Human Rights Council 49: UK statement for the interactive dialogue on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic

Thank you, Mr President.

The United Kingdom is concerned by the indiscriminate killings of civilians and continued violations and abuses of human rights in the Central African Republic, and by the presence of mercenaries from the Wagner Group. These mercenaries are responsible for multiple human rights abuses, including the targeting of Fulani populations. This undermines the work of UN Peacekeepers, and adds to the suffering that the people of CAR continue to experience as a result of this protracted and dire conflict.

Both the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and Non-State Armed Groups, in particular the Coalition des Patriotes pour le Changement (CPC), have perpetrated widespread violations of international humanitarian law. We call for accountability for the victims and an end to the violence.

We condemn the high levels of violence and the violations and abuses of human rights, including acts of sexual violence, forced displacement of civilians, and attacks against humanitarian personnel and UN peacekeepers.

The UK will continue to work with international partners to urge the Government of CAR to make progress implementing the peace agreement and initiate dialogue between all political actors in CAR, in order to end violence, build stability and protect human rights.

High Commissioner,

What is your assessment of the opportunities and risks from the upcoming local elections on the peace process? Thank you.