The United Nations demands accountability in the Central African Republic following serious human rights violations by armed groups. A report indicates that numerous individuals were killed in recent attacks, and various abuses have been documented against marginalized communities. The UN urges for clarity on armed group affiliations and stresses the importance of combating impunity to restore stability and human rights in the region.
The United Nations is calling for accountability in the Central African Republic (CAR) following reports of serious human rights violations by armed groups. According to a report from the Human Rights Office and the UN mission in CAR, known as MINUSCA, ensuring accountability is crucial in preventing future violations. The findings indicate that at least twenty-four individuals were killed in attacks that occurred in the Mbomou and Haut-Mbomou prefectures last year and earlier this year, including victims of summary executions.
The report highlights that various armed groups, including one linked to the nation’s armed forces, have perpetrated significant human rights abuses, particularly against Muslim communities and refugees from Sudan. Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that documented atrocities include sexual violence, forced labor, torture, and the looting of homes and businesses. He emphasized that these grave offenses should not go unpunished and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to assist local authorities in enhancing human rights measures and combating impunity.
Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, emphasized the necessity to clarify the associations between the armed group WTA and the national army, demanding full transparency concerning its actions. Türk warned that if such transparency cannot be ensured, disarming the group is imperative. The CAR has endured persistent instability and violence rooted in religious and ethnic divisions, with UN estimates indicating that one in five individuals are either internally displaced or have fled the country due to the ongoing conflict.
The continuous strife has significantly impacted critical infrastructure and public services, such as schools and hospitals. In light of the violence, MINUSCA has increased its initiatives to protect civilians and assist in reinstating authoritative governance in the affected regions.
In summary, the United Nations has issued a strong call for accountability in the Central African Republic amidst alarming reports of human rights violations by armed groups. With a focus on transparency and the need to clarify ties between these groups and the armed forces, the UN aims to foster a humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis. The serious impact of conflict on the population and infrastructure underscores the necessity for urgent action to protect vulnerable communities.
Original Source: news.az