Since gaining independence from France in 1960, CAR has experienced chronic instability and outbreaks of violent conflict. The most recent crisis began in late 2012 when a coalition of armed groups banded together to seize control of the country, ushering in an unprecedented level of violence that culminated in a bloody coup d'état. While a transitional government was able to hold the country’s first peaceful, democratic election in 2016, ongoing violence and instability threaten to erode this progress. In 2018, intensifying clashes and deepening divisions led to a record 1.1 million people displaced by the conflict and made CAR one of the deadliest countries in the world for aid workers.
The CAR government, in partnership with the international community, is working to address the longstanding grievances driving the conflict and the profound insecurity affecting many of the country’s citizens. Early this year, the African Union led peace negotiations between the government and armed groups in Khartoum, Sudan, the eighth attempt at a peace deal. With support from a wide range of stakeholders, the dialogue produced a new peace deal outlining steps to reduce conflict and build peace.
This video is a recodring of a USIP event earlier this year, with panelist such as President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange Touadéra and U.S Ambassador to Central African Republic Lucy Tamlyn as well.
To watch and/or listen to the full recording of A Conversation with Central African Republic President Touadéra. Prospects for Peace in the Central African Republic kindly follow the link.