The UN Independent Expert on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic, Aristide Nononsi, expressed concern June 1 about the persistent violence in the country, and its impacts on human rights and the humanitarian situation.

During his visit to the Central African Republic, Nononsi noted that despite the peaceful electoral process that took place in December, the country continues to face instability due to continuing attacks by armed groups against civilians, tensions involving nomadic pastoral communities, and the consequences of the armed conflict in Sudan. The reported attacks include forced displacement, extortion, and conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls.

The UN expert called on authorities to bring the perpetrators of these human rights violations to justice to hold them accountable. He also stressed that the government needs to implement essential measures to improve the deteriorating human rights situation in the country, such as providing protection for civilians against violence, safeguarding civic space and civil society organizations, strengthening judicial authority, and upholding the rule of law. He also urged international partners to back Central African authorities’ efforts in combating violence and restoring security.

Relatedly, he commended the significant role played by the Special Criminal Court and called for its increased independence, as well as providing more support for national human rights institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission and the Truth, Justice, Reparations and Reconciliation Commission (CVJRR).

During his visit to the Central African Republic, Nononsi met with senior representatives of the country's authorities, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners. He will present his detailed findings and recommendations in a full report to the UN Human Rights Council.

The Central African Republic has been struggling with an armed conflict between armed groups and government forces, in addition to general poverty and escalating climate hazards. In March 2025, the UN reported grave human rights violations committed by armed groups against civilians, which included torture, looting, and sexual violence against women and girls. The country also faces increasing risks of extreme weather events, such as prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, and unexpected floods, which would further exacerbate the humanitarian situation by affecting the livelihoods of farmers as well as raising food insecurity and poverty rates.

From JURIST, June 2. Used with permission.

Note: The report comes nine years after a peace accord that officially put an end to the CAR's internal conflict.