An independent expert has accused U.N. peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic of committing serious human rights violations. Yao Agbetse noted reports of sexual abuse by MINUSCA contingents and called for appropriate responses from authorities. Meanwhile, U.N. officials stress their commitment to investigate such allegations rigorously as the nation continues to struggle with violence from rebel groups amidst ongoing conflict.
According to an independent investigator, Yao Agbetse, United Nations peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries are implicated in human rights violations in the Central African Republic (CAR). Agbetse, a human rights lawyer, has expressed significant concern regarding the actions of both the Central African armed forces and Russian affiliates within the Wagner Group, as well as members of the U.N. peacekeeping mission, known as MINUSCA.
During a recent press conference in Bangui, the capital of CAR, Agbetse remarked that various contingents of MINUSCA have reportedly been involved in sexual abuse and exploitation. He emphasized the alarming frequency of violations committed particularly by Russian forces, urging local authorities to implement appropriate measures for response. These findings were part of Agbetse’s assessment during his official visit aimed at investigating and documenting the region’s human rights landscape.
In response to these serious allegations, Florence Marchal, spokesperson for the MINUSCA mission, reaffirmed the U.N.’s commitment to thoroughly investigate all accusations of misconduct. She stated that all instances of sexual exploitation and abuse are intolerable, highlighting the U.N.’s priority in providing multi-faceted assistance to victims while ensuring their dignity is upheld. Marchal asserted that every allegation will be meticulously reviewed, followed by stringent sanctions should the evidence substantiate the claims.
The Central African Republic continues to grapple with severe poverty despite its resource wealth, encountering persistent violence from rebel factions that often act without consequence. Since 2013, when predominantly Muslim insurgents ousted President Francois Bozize, the country has been enmeshed in conflict. Although Wagner forces have been credited for helping stabilize the situation in Bangui, their involvement has not been without controversy, raising questions about the effectiveness of foreign forces in restoring peace.
The allegations of human rights violations involving U.N. peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic present a grave concern for the international community. With calls for accountability from independent experts, actions taken by MINUSCA will be scrutinized as they work to address these issues. The ongoing conflict and the instability in CAR further complicate the efforts for achieving lasting peace and protection of human rights.
Original Source: winnipegsun.com
