Statement by Mr Oļegs Iļģis,
Chargé d'affaires a.i. and Deputy Permanent Representative of Latvia to the UN
UN Security Council briefing
on the situation in Central African Republic
23 June 2026
Thank you, Madam President.
I thank SRSG Valentine Rugwabiza for her comprehensive briefing. I also thank the Chair of the Peacebuilding Commission Ambassador Omar Hilale for sharing valuable insights from the PBC’s visit to the Central African Republic. I welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of the Central African Republic in this meeting.
Madam President, I will make four points.
First, Latvia takes note of the progress in the electoral process in the Central African Republic. We commend the Government of the Central African Republic and MINUSCA for their efforts to deliver peaceful elections, including in areas where insecurity had initially prevented voting from taking place. Furthermore, we applaud the Mission and the UN Country Team for the support they provided throughout the electoral process, including in facilitating the participation of women as voters and candidates.
Turning to the future - democracy requires constant exercise. We encourage the newly elected representatives and the new Government to strengthen democratic institutions, promote good governance and ensure inclusive decision-making. It is also important for people to see that their elected representatives are working to improve their lives. Newly-elected local authorities need to be supported in their efforts to promote peace and development in respective communities. This is also crucial in the context of the extension of State authority.
Second, we note that the implementation of the peace process has continued, notably through the disarmament and demobilization of former combatants. We stress the importance of the DDR process being nationally-led, and of MINUSCA to continue supporting the Government in its implementation. We also underscore the important role of community violence reduction measures, as well as peacebuilding efforts in further consolidating peace and security in the country.
Third, while recognizing the progress that has been made, we are concerned that serious human rights abuses persist in the Central African Republic. Conflict-related sexual violence and grave violations against children are among the most troubling. Violations are committed by non-state actors, as well as by state actors, including the so-called “other security personnel”. We encourage the Government to demonstrate its commitment to promoting human rights and combating impunity by implementing appropriate preventive measures and strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms. We also note that Central African Republic has undertaken formal commitments to address conflict-related sexual violence.
Finally, while the security situation has overall improved, it remains fragile. We are particularly concerned by the impact of the conflict in Sudan in the northeast and insecurity caused by the activities of the Azandé Ani Kpi Gbé in the southeast of the country. The reported incidents in these regions underscore the continued need for the protection of civilians and the extension of State authority.
In conclusion, Madam President,
We welcome the update on the consolidation and reconfiguration of MINUSCA’s footprint in the country. The Mission should be appropriately resourced to implement its mandate under this new posture that emphasises increased mobility. For now, we consider the role of MINUSCA remains indispensable. Discussions on its future should be guided by a careful assessment of the situation on the ground. Ultimately, the irreversibility of peace and security gains will be one of the key measures of MINUSCA’s legacy.
I thank you.