Accusations of Human Rights Violations by UN Peacekeepers in Central African Republic

An independent investigator has accused U.N. peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries of severe human rights violations in the Central African Republic. Notably, Yao Agbetse revealed reports of sexual abuse within both the local military and MINUSCA forces. The U.N. vowed to investigate these allegations rigorously, as conflict persists in the nation, which remains one of the world’s most impoverished despite its rich mineral resources.

BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — An independent human rights investigator has accused United Nations peacekeeping forces and Russian mercenaries of committing serious human rights violations in the Central African Republic. Yao Agbetse, a noted human rights lawyer, highlighted alarming violations involving the local armed forces, their Russian allies from the Wagner Group, and members of the U.N.-led peacekeeping mission, known as MINUSCA.

Agbetse addressed a news conference in Bangui, stating that MINUSCA contingents have been implicated in violations, including instances of sexual abuse and exploitation. He emphatically mentioned, “Particularly where the Russian bilateral forces are concerned, there is consistent evidence of violations attributable to the Russians, and the authorities need to take steps to find appropriate solutions.”

Following an official visit aimed at assessing and reporting on the human rights situation in the country, Agbetse intends to submit his findings to the U.N. Human Rights Council in September. He reinforced the urgent need for intervention to address these serious allegations.

Florence Marchal, a spokesperson for MINUSCA, affirmed the U.N.’s commitment to thoroughly investigating the allegations. She stated, “All forms of sexual exploitation and abuse are unacceptable, and that multi-faceted assistance to identified victims…remains the mission’s priority.” Every allegation received is subjected to rigorous investigation, with appropriate sanctions applied if proven valid.

The Central African Republic is one of the poorest countries globally, despite vast mineral resources. It has suffered ongoing conflict since 2013, when predominantly Muslim rebels overthrew President Francois Bozize. Despite the presence of Wagner forces preventing further advances by rebel groups, the country continues to struggle with violence and insecurity, significantly hindering mining explorations and overall development.

In conclusion, serious accusations have arisen against U.N. peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic, with reports of human rights violations, including sexual abuse. The independent expert Yao Agbetse urges corrective measures, while the U.N. asserts its commitment to investigating these claims. The ongoing conflict in the region only exacerbates the dire situation, emphasizing the need for sustained international attention and intervention.

Original Source: winnipegsun.com