UN Peacekeepers and Russian Mercenaries Accused of Human Rights Violations in CAR
Yao Agbetse, a human rights expert, has reported human rights violations by UN peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic. He cited evidence of sexual abuse and called for appropriate interventions. MINUSCA committed to investigating these claims, affirming zero tolerance for exploitation. The ongoing conflict in CAR raises significant concerns regarding the accountability of foreign forces and the safety of civilians.
Yao Agbetse, a human rights lawyer and independent expert, has accused UN peacekeeping forces and Russian mercenaries of committing serious human rights violations in the Central African Republic (CAR). Following a visit to the country, Agbetse noted that both United Nations personnel and members of the Wagner Group are implicated in these violations. The UN has acknowledged concerns regarding the conduct of its forces in the region.
Agbetse stated at a recent press conference in Bangui, the capital of CAR, that MINUSCA contingents have been reported to engage in sexual exploitation and abuse. He emphasized the need for authorities to address these violations, particularly those involving the Russian forces, pointing to consistent evidence of misconduct attributed to them. He plans to present comprehensive findings on the human rights situation in CAR to the UN Human Rights Council in September.
In response to these allegations, MINUSCA spokesperson Florence Marchal affirmed the mission’s commitment to thoroughly investigate all claims of sexual exploitation and abuse. She stated, “all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse are unacceptable” and emphasized the importance of providing assistance to victims while respecting their dignity. She assured that each allegation is meticulously examined, and appropriate sanctions follow established protocols when evidence is confirmed.
The Central African Republic continues to battle persistent conflict, originating from a coup in 2013 that overthrew former President Francois Bozize. Despite the country’s wealth in resources such as gold and diamonds, it remains impoverished, with various rebel groups operating freely. The Wagner Group has been deployed to counter these insurgent threats, acting as protectors of the current administration, and they have been credited with maintaining control in Bangui during earlier conflicts in 2021.
The ongoing situation in CAR raises serious concerns over human rights and the accountability of foreign forces involved. The allegations against UN peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries underscore the urgent need for intervention and transparent investigations to address the reported abuses and to enhance the protection of civilian populations in the conflict-ridden region.
The allegations of human rights violations by UN peacekeepers and Russian mercenaries in the Central African Republic highlight a pressing issue within international peacekeeping efforts. As Agbetse prepares to present his findings, the UN’s commitment to rigorously investigate these claims is crucial. The situation remains critical, with long-term implications for human rights and stability in the region, necessitating comprehensive actions from global bodies.
Original Source: winnipegsun.com
