The 56th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council

18 June – 12 July 2024

Item 10: Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the Independent Expert on the Situation of Human Rights in the Central African Republic

9th July 2024

Delivered by Adam Seymour / GICJ

Thank you, Vice President,

We thank the Independent Expert for his report. We recognise the complex civil issues concerning the Central African Republic (CAR) and commend their efforts to promote and implement human rights laws, as articulated at last year’s Human Rights 75 event in late December here in Geneva.

Additionally, we acknowledge the Central African Republic government's receptiveness to collaborate with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission (MINUSCA), particularly through the Special Criminal Court established to pursue justice for crimes against humanity.

The adoption of the Special Criminal Court is not only integral to the country's future legal framework but also represents a significant step toward creating a more prosperous, safe, and equitable community.

While the government has made progress, human rights abuses persist, and we call on the Independent Expert to urge all stakeholders to further enhance efforts to prevent such violations. Of particular concern is the involvement of children in armed conflict; we urge expedited measures to disarm and demobilise armed groups, negotiate the release of children, and provide necessary psycho-social and medical support.

Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration and the Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) encourage all parties to continue advancing towards peace, as outlined in the Independent Expert’s work through open and transparent elections, as well as in both the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation (2019) and the Joint Roadmap for Peace.

Thank you.