Interactive Dialogue with OHCHR
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As Delivered by Lucy Seyfarth
Human Rights Council – 49th Session
March 30, 2022
Thank you, Vice President.
The United States remains troubled by reports of atrocities and human rights abuses by the Armed Forces of the Central African Republic (FACA), Russian Wagner Group forces, and other armed groups. We are especially disturbed by Wagner forces’ widely observed human rights abuses, including the January massacre of unarmed civilians in the town of Aigbado and other destabilizing activities like obstructing UN peacekeepers.
We are troubled by reports that FACA and Wagner forces continue to target predominantly Muslim communities. This increases the risk of further regional destabilization.
We call on the Central African Republic government to investigate all allegations and hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations and abuses. While the initial steps taken by the government’s Special Commission of Inquiry were positive, the absence of any documented investigations is concerning.
Durable peace requires a commitment to good governance, human rights, inclusive dialogue, justice, and accountability—not military action.
How can we work with Central African Republic authorities and civil society to improve the government’s coordination with the UN and ensure the Special Commission of Inquiry holds accountable FACA and Wagner personnel who have committed human rights abuses and violations?
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