High-level Dialogue on the Central African Republic
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
As delivered by Patrick Elliot, Human Rights Officer
Human Rights Council – 52nd Session
Thank you Mr. Vice President, Mr. High Commissioner, et Monsieur le Ministre.
The United States encourages the government of the Central African Republic to build on positive efforts to investigate allegations of human rights abuses and to hold accountable those responsible for abuses, including the Wagner Group, which the Russian government substituted for UN-approved trainers in 2017.
Acknowledging the capacity constraints of the country’s judicial system, we commend authorities’ efforts to restart criminal court proceedings after 27 years. Further, we support the Special Criminal Court’s vital work, in partnership with the government, and urge authorities to expand their coordination moving forward.
We remain deeply concerned by continued reports of human rights abuses by armed groups, the Armed Forces of the Central African Republic (or FACA), and the Wagner Group. We are troubled by reports that Wagner Group and FACA operations continue to harm members of predominantly Muslim communities, as UN reporting has detailed.
Durable peace requires a commitment to good governance, respect for human rights, inclusive dialogue, justice, and accountability.
For the panel: How can we work with authorities and civil society to strengthen accountability for human rights abuses in the Central African Republic?
I thank you.
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