UN Peacekeeping Mission in Central African Republic Requires Strong Financial Support

Strategic Insights -

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, a key country for regional stability, needs strong financial support due to UN systemwide liquidity constraints, according to the Organization's top official in the country. The mission has made significant strides in expanding the government's authority, deploying security forces, and preparing for critical elections scheduled for December 28. However, the liquidity measures affecting the UN system have begun to impact its work, resulting in a 15% reduction in expenditures through personnel cuts. The mission is using its limited resources to prioritize the protection of civilians, electoral support, and maintaining momentum in implementing the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic requires strong financial support due to UN systemwide liquidity constraints.
  • The mission has made significant strides in expanding the government's authority, deploying security forces, and preparing for critical elections scheduled for December 28.
  • The liquidity measures affecting the UN system have begun to impact its work, resulting in a 15% reduction in expenditures through personnel cuts.
  • The mission is using its limited resources to prioritize the protection of civilians, electoral support, and maintaining momentum in implementing the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.
  • The return of two armed groups to the peace agreement is a positive turning point, but peace must be anchored in development for it to be sustainable.
  • Predictable and sustainable financing is critical for the mission's success, and any reduction in the mandate could negatively impact the country and the wider region.

Statistics:

  • 15% reduction in expenditures through personnel cuts due to liquidity measures affecting the UN system.
  • $12.4 million financing gap required to hold the upcoming elections successfully.
  • 28 December scheduled date for critical presidential, legislative, and municipal elections.
  • 2019 date for signing the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.

Sources:

  • UN Press Release (no date)
  • Speech by Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA)
  • Statement by Guyana's representative, speaking on behalf of Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Somalia
  • Statements by Denmark, Pakistan, Slovenia, Russian Federation, United States, France, United Kingdom, Greece, and the Central African Republic.