Source: United Nations (video statements)
Security Council briefing by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, on the situation in the Central African Republic.
The Central African Republic faces a “delicate juncture,” UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix told the Security Council, warning that upcoming elections present both an opportunity and a challenge for the country’s fragile peace process.
“The human rights situation in the Central African Republic remains concerning, with persistent violations and abuses, including conflict-related sexual violence and grave violations of children’s rights,” Lacroix said today (26 Jun).
Despite the ongoing violence, Lacroix noted progress in accountability efforts. He highlighted the work of the Special Criminal Court (SCC), which recently delivered a verdict related to deadly clashes in Ndélé in 2020 between two factions of the Front populaire pour la renaissance de la Centrafrique (FPRC).
“Progress has also been made in advancing judicial accountability, notably by the Special Criminal Court, which is playing a significant role in the fight against impunity and transitional justice,” Lacroix said. But he warned the Court is entering “a critical phase that requires reinforced financial and human resources to sustain and expand its activities.”
Lacroix underscored that the upcoming local, legislative, and presidential elections are “a unique opportunity to strengthen democratic governance and advance national reconciliation,” but stressed that broad international support remains essential.