UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations visits CAR
3 min read
UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, recently visited the Central African Republic (CAR), where he explored key areas in the country’s capital, Bangui, and the city of Bambari, located in the Ouaka region. Lacroix’s mission aimed to evaluate the activities of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and its impact on the region, focusing on security, development, and humanitarian concerns.
During his visit to Bambari, Lacroix met with local authorities and residents, engaging in discussions about the progress and challenges in implementing the mission’s mandate. MINUSCA’s presence in the region has been pivotal, helping to stabilize areas affected by ongoing conflict and insecurity. Lacroix also visited the Bambari Court of Appeal, a key institution built and equipped by MINUSCA to strengthen the rule of law in the country. He spoke with various civil society groups, including women’s political organizations, to understand better their role and challenges within the socio-political landscape.
Lacroix offered an optimistic assessment of the situation, despite ongoing struggles. He noted, “The impression is encouraging, positive of course. There are still challenges. People still talk to me about certain areas, there is still insecurity, the need to continue working to encourage development, entrepreneurship, private initiatives, promoting human rights, the role and ownership of women, and participation of women in the political process.” He acknowledged the complexities faced by the country but emphasized that the trajectory for peace and development was moving in a positive direction.
Following his visit to Bambari, Lacroix traveled to Bangui, where he met with President of the National Assembly, Simplice Mathieu Sarandji, and members of the parliamentary office. Accompanied by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Chief of MINUSCA, Valentine Rugwabiza, Lacroix discussed the progress made in the country’s security situation, the reinforcement of state presence, and efforts to stabilize and develop the region. He highlighted the undeniable progress he had observed on the ground, particularly in terms of security and the strengthening of government institutions, noting that the relationship between the national parliament and the United Nations was both positive and collaborative.
Lacroix and Sarandji’s discussion also covered the challenges that remain, particularly in terms of security, and the urgent need for continued efforts to tackle these issues. They stressed the importance of improving governance, security, and economic development to ensure long-term stability. The conversation also touched on the upcoming electoral deadlines for 2025, with Lacroix emphasizing the importance of a peaceful and democratic process that would allow the Central African people to have a voice in their future.
While acknowledging the progress made, Lacroix emphasized the necessity of overcoming the remaining challenges to further the country’s development. He reiterated that MINUSCA, in collaboration with the CAR government and other partners, would continue to work towards strengthening state institutions, improving security, and fostering economic growth. The goal is to ensure that CAR remains on a path toward long-term peace and stability, despite the ongoing hurdles that still impede full progress.
Lacroix’s visit to CAR underscored the vital role of the UN in supporting peace operations and development efforts in countries emerging from conflict. His assessment of the situation highlighted the complexities of peacebuilding in CAR but also pointed to the potential for significant progress with continued support from international partners. The visit also reflected the ongoing commitment of the United Nations to addressing the security and humanitarian needs of the Central African Republic and its people.
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