GENEVA - A UN expert expressed serious concern over continued violence, insecurity and human rights violations in several parts of the Central African Republic.
"I welcome the cooperation of the authorities and the generally peaceful conduct of the 2025-2026 electoral process, which he described as an important step toward stability in the country," said Aristide Nononsi, the Independent Expert on the human rights situation in the Central African Republic following his first official visit to the country.
However, Nononsi expressed grave concern over persistent violence in several regions of CAR, particularly in border areas affected by armed groups, tensions related to transhumance or nomadic pastoral communities, and the consequences of the conflict in Sudan.
"I received disturbing reports that violence against civilians, extortion, forced displacement, conflict-related sexual violence, and of human rights violations committed both by armed groups and during certain security operations," the expert said.
During the visit, the Independent Expert met with the highest Central African authorities, representatives of MINUSCA, UN agencies, civil society organisations, and international partners.
Nonansi said the fight against impunity must apply to all perpetrators of human rights violations without exception. He welcomed the essential role played by the Special Criminal Court and called for stronger independence and support for national human rights institutions, including the National Human Rights Commission and the Truth, Justice, Reparations and Reconciliation Commission (CVJRR).
He also emphasised the need to protect civic space, human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society organisations.
"In light of the alarming humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic, I am urging national authorities and international partners to continue efforts aimed at protecting civilians, strengthening the rule of law, justice, and reconciliation," Nononsi said.
The expert will present his detailed findings and recommendations in his forthcoming report to the UN Human Rights Council.
