Published: Thursday, October 24, 2024, 13:24 | Category: International
New York (United Nations) – The A3+ Group reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Central African Republic (CAR) during a meeting at the United Nations on Wednesday. At the same time, the group expressed concern over the complex challenges facing the country, spanning political, security, and human rights issues.
The A3+ Group—comprising the three African nations holding non-permanent seats on the UN Security Council (Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Mozambique) along with Guyana from the Caribbean—issued the statement through Amar Benjamaâ, Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, during a briefing on the situation in the Central African Republic.
Political Challenges and Progress Toward Peace
Ambassador Benjamaâ outlined the A3+ Group’s concerns regarding the political, security, and human rights dimensions of the ongoing crisis in CAR. On the political front, he commended the CAR government’s efforts to implement the 2019 peace agreement and noted progress in coordinating political efforts, particularly with regard to border management policies.
Benjamaâ expressed optimism about the government’s initiative to engage with armed groups, some of which have shown a willingness to rejoin the peace process. He urged all armed factions to commit or recommit to the peace process, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts toward reconciliation.
He also praised the disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and rehabilitation (DDRR) efforts currently being implemented with the support of the UN Peacekeeping Mission in CAR (MINUSCA). Benjamaâ called on remaining armed groups to participate in these efforts to further consolidate peace.
However, the ambassador expressed regret over the postponement of local elections—originally scheduled for 2024—until 2025. Despite the delay, the A3+ Group acknowledged the ongoing preparations for the elections and reiterated its support for the CAR government’s efforts to strengthen democracy.
Security Challenges: Border Infiltration and Arms Trafficking
On the security front, Benjamaâ highlighted the persistent risks posed by porous borders, which have enabled armed groups to move freely and smuggle weapons for years. He commended recent efforts by the CAR government to bolster security cooperation with neighboring countries by revitalizing border commissions and expanding MINUSCA’s support to restore state authority through the rehabilitation of roads and administrative infrastructure.
The ambassador stressed the importance of international support for CAR’s efforts to restore peace and security and called on the global community to uphold UN-imposed sanctions on armed groups. He emphasized the need for the full implementation of the 2019 Peace and Reconciliation Agreement to stabilize the country.
Human Rights Crisis and the Impact of Climate Change
The A3+ Group expressed deep concern over the severe human rights situation in CAR, which Benjamaâ described as having reached “an unprecedented crisis level.” The ambassador noted that large-scale displacement—exacerbated by climate change—has further complicated the humanitarian situation.
Benjamaâ highlighted the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in CAR, urging international partners to provide financial support to address gaps in the humanitarian response plan and ensure its effective implementation. The group stressed that addressing the humanitarian crisis is essential for achieving lasting peace, in addition to political and reconciliation efforts.
The A3+ Group welcomed the establishment of early warning systems and the formation of a commission to investigate human rights violations, which the group sees as crucial to ensuring accountability and preventing further abuses.
Food Security: A Growing Concern
The ambassador also drew attention to the escalating food insecurity in CAR, calling for urgent international assistance to address the crisis. He underscored the importance of helping CAR better utilize its natural resources to achieve long-term food security and reduce the country’s dependence on external aid.
In conclusion, the A3+ Group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting CAR in overcoming its challenges and urged the international community to assist in ensuring peace, stability, and sustainable development in the country.
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Author: nor-eleslam
Keywords: Central African Republic, A3+ Group, peace process, MINUSCA, political challenges, border security, humanitarian crisis, food security, human rights violations, UN sanctions
