Oral statement during high level ID on CAR

Item 10: High Level Interactive Dialogue on the Central African Republic

Organisation: Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW)

Speaker: Claire Denman

Thank you, Madame President.

CSW welcomes the Council’s continued scrutiny of the human rights situation in the Central African Republic.

Serious concerns remain regarding impunity, the restoration of rule of law and securing justice for victims of violations.

We are troubled by reports of ongoing violence in the country, particularly in relation to the parliamentary and presidential elections of December 2020, and of egregious human rights violations by the militia coalition.

In February, the Secretary General reported that over 200,000 people had been displaced by violence, with many others losing their lives.

This has occurred against a backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which presents a further threat to IDPs and refugees, many of whom will be unable to self-isolate, socially distance, or access adequate treatment should they contract the virus.

We therefore echo the Secretary General’s call for the government of CAR to hold meaningful dialogues with political opposition and armed groups, ensuring the peace process is revitalised, and the safety of vulnerable citizens is prioritised.

We encourage the Council to do everything in its power to assist peace efforts, including supporting and strengthening governance and key institutions in the country.

CSW is also concerned by ongoing violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief, primarily perpetrated by armed groups affiliated with the Seleka and anti-Balaka militias.

We therefore reiterate our longstanding call on the government to guarantee freedom of religion or belief for all citizens, and ensure justice and assistance for victims of violence.

Thank you