HRC42: Oral statement on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic

Agenda Item 10:Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in the Central African Republic

Organisation: Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)

Speaker: Claire Denman

Thank you Mr President,

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) welcomes the report of the Independent Expert and recent developments in CAR, most notably the signing of the peace agreement in February by the main armed groups operational in the country.

We note observations by the Independent Expert and MINUSCA highlighting a reduction in clashes between armed groups during the second half of the reporting period. However we remain concerned by several attacks that have taken place, including one earlier this month in Birao between the Popular Front for the Renaissance of the Central African Republic and the Movement of Central African Freedom Fighters for Justice.

We continue to urge the government of CAR and all parties to the conflict to respect the terms of the peace agreement, and we call on the government to ensure that those perpetrating violence are brought to justice.

As CAR prepares to enter a new election period, it is vital that conditions are conducive to the democratic process of voting, which includes restoring security and state authority throughout the country.

Over the last year further steps have been taken to prosecute those found to have committed the most serious violations, including atrocity crimes. Pre-trial hearings at the International Criminal Court (ICC), operationalising the Special Criminal Court and progress towards national reconciliation and transitional justice mechanisms have all begun. CSW urges the government of CAR to ensure that the justice sector can continue working effectively.

We continue to call on the government of CAR to partner with civil society actors and religious leaders in the creation of programmes designed to rebuild social cohesion and reconcile communities that have been in conflict. This work is particularly important in situations where IDPs are supported in returning to their communities.

Mr President, as the Independent Expert comes to the end of her mandate, CSW commends her efforts to raise human rights concerns in CAR and formulate concrete and specific recommendations for both the government and the international community. We ask Ms Keita-Bocoum, what recommendations she has for regional cooperation to restrict the ability of armed groups crossing borders and perpetrating crimes against civilians.

Thank you