UN: A3+ Group Commits to Central African Republic’s Sovereignty

On Wednesday in New York, the A3+ Group reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Central African Republic (CAR), voicing concerns over the multifaceted challenges facing the nation.

This statement from the A3+ Group, which consists of three non-permanent African members of the UN Security Council—Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Mozambique—along with Guyana from the Caribbean, was presented by Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Amar Bendjama, during a briefing on the situation in the CAR.

Ambassador Bendjama articulated the A3+ Group’s apprehensions regarding the various obstacles confronting the CAR, emphasizing three critical areas: political, security, and human rights dimensions.

On the political front, the diplomat commended the government’s ongoing efforts to implement the political agreement and the progress made during the 8th coordination meeting of the political process, particularly concerning the execution of the national policy on border management. He expressed optimism about “the government’s initiative to engage in dialogue with armed groups willing to reinvigorate the peace process,” urging “all armed groups to commit to or reaffirm their dedication to the peace process.”

He praised the CAR government for “the progress achieved in disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation, and reintegration,” stressing that “the program is supported by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), and therefore, we call on the remaining members of armed groups to join this effort.”

Ambassador Bendjama lamented the postponement of local elections initially scheduled for 2024, now delayed to 2025.

In terms of security, he noted that “the group remains concerned about the potential for border crossings in the CAR, a persistent reality that facilitates the unimpeded movement of armed groups and arms trafficking in border regions.”

He also acknowledged the recent efforts undertaken by the government to bolster security cooperation with neighboring countries, including the activation of border commissions and continued support from MINUSCA, which involves the rehabilitation of roads and administrative facilities. He urged the international community to support initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security in the CAR.

Furthermore, Ambassador Bendjama emphasized the necessity of adhering to UN sanctions imposed on armed groups as part of broader efforts to enhance security in the country, demanding “the full implementation of the 2019 Peace and Reconciliation Agreement.”

Addressing the human rights situation, which has reached “unprecedented crisis levels,” the A3+ representative underscored that it has been exacerbated by forced and mass displacement due to climate change.

He added, “Our group expresses concern that the Central African Republic is facing a significant number of internally displaced persons due to the conflict.”

“We urge our international partners to provide financial support to address the shortcomings identified in the humanitarian response plan, thereby ensuring its comprehensive implementation.”

He further emphasized the necessity of addressing the humanitarian situation as part of a broader strategy for sustainable peace, alongside the political and peace processes. He expressed his support for “the establishment and enhancement of early warning systems, as well as the creation of a commission to investigate human rights violations.”

In relation to the crisis of food insecurity, the ambassador underscored that “it must urgently attract more attention,” highlighting the importance of “supporting the Central African Republic in better utilizing its natural resources to achieve food security.”