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Human Rights Council 40: Interactive Dialogue on the Central African Republic

UK is concerned by increase in human rights violations & abuses in Central African Republic. We call on all parties to stop attacks against civilians.

Palais

The Human Rights Council takes place in Geneva.

The UK remains concerned by the increase in human rights violations and abuses in The Central African Republic (CAR), in particular against women and children.

We strongly condemn the deliberate targeting of civilians, humanitarian actors and medical workers by armed groups, as evidenced by attacks on houses of worship, hospitals and displaced persons’ camps. There has been a significant increase in violence in Batangafo and Bambari, preceding attacks in Alindao, Ippy, Bakouma, and Carnot. We call on all parties to the conflict to stop all violent attacks against civilians.

CAR is at a crossroads in its history. We urge the CAR Government, with the support of the African Union, UN and the international community, to expedite the implementation of the Peace Agreement. This remains crucial for long-term peace and stability in CAR, with tangible improvements desperately needed to the lives of the Central African people.

The challenges that lie ahead are considerable. However, the UK is optimistic that continued inclusiveness of the peace process offers women, religious leaders and the youth of CAR, agency to bring about lasting change in their communities.

Mr President,

We would like to ask the Independent Expert for a sense of progress in her forthcoming report.

We would also welcome her advice on what we can all do to support the CAR Government at this critical juncture.

Thank you.

Published 20 March 2019