The Central African Republic, a country gripped by armed conflict since 2013, is facing an alarming increase in gender-based violence. This worrying situation is amplified by a fragile judicial system and the stigma associated with victims speaking out.
Over the course of 2020, the number of reported cases of gender-based violence jumped from 9,200 to 25,500, according to data from the United Nations and its partners. However, despite this significant increase, international funds to the Central African Republic have declined, leaving the issue of gender-based violence largely ignored in financial support.
Less than 15% of the 14 million US dollars requested in humanitarian aid has been received, says the UN. This lack of funding is attributed to donor fatigue and the impact of multiple ongoing global crises.
The alleged perpetrators of these acts of violence include various actors, from bandits to UN peacekeepers and Wagner company military contractors. Allegations of sexual abuse by peacekeepers in this country and elsewhere are not new, and the UN has long faced these accusations.
Three years ago, the Secretary-General ordered the immediate repatriation of the entire contingent of Gabonese peacekeepers due to credible reports of sexual abuse. One woman, speaking on condition of anonymity, said she was raped by a member of MINUSCA, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic. She testified to difficulties in sharing her story or seeking redress, having received inappropriate advice.
Médecins Sans Frontières has seen an increase in the number of survivors of gender-based violence seeking help, due to the expansion of its services. However, the majority of survivors probably do not dare to come forward, often due to a lack of support services available in their region.
Women who dare to testify have difficulty obtaining justice, indicates the Association of Women Lawyers for Central Africa. Pressure from those close to the attackers can lead victims to abandon the proceedings initiated.
Despite the implementation of measures aimed at combating violence against women, notably through the adoption of a new Constitution, the Central African Republic is still struggling to eliminate sexual assault.
The country, in conflict since 2013, has been the scene of fighting between predominantly Muslim armed groups and Christian militias. Even though a peace agreement was signed in 2019, the country remains unstable and armed groups continue to sow terror.
Despite the presence of a UN peacekeeping mission and Rwandan troops, as well as the Wagner mercenary group operating alongside the national army, abuses persist, leaving victims of gender-based violence without real protection or justice.
It is essential that the international community strengthens its financial and diplomatic commitment to the Central African Republic and supports efforts to end gender-based violence in the country.