Central African Republic: Statement of Catherine Bragg 30 Jul 2009

Thank you to everyone for having come. I would like to start with an update on my visit and then share with you my impressions. I will respond to your questions afterwards.

First of all, I would like to thank the authorities of the Central African Republic for their availability and for having welcomed me in Bangui and in the field. I am also grateful to the humanitarian community in CAR who have contributed a lot to make this visit a success.

Update on the situation

I have met his Excellency, the President, Francois Bozize. I have also had a meeting with Prime Minister Faustin Archange Touadera

In the field, I met the authorities of the towns of Birao, Kabo and Paoua and I was able to visit some of the displaced people living in these regions. I have also spoken with members of the humanitarian community both in the field and in Bangui.

The number of people affected directly or indirectly by the effects of the conflicts which have occurred in certain areas is estimated by the humanitarian community to be nearly one million. Amongst these people, 125,000 are displaced internally within CAR. In the areas I visited about 25,000 people have fled their homes to seek refuge in the bush. Some of them have been displaced three or even four separate times due to insecurity during the last four years. They have very limited, at times non-existent access to water, healthcare, education and shelter. The basic social infrastructures are either destroyed or never existed. In addition, there is an effective absence of police force or judiciary, permitting a culture of impunity as well as repeated violations of the population's rights.

In some of the areas we visited, humanitarian organisations still have difficulties in accessing certain vulnerable groups - whether it be to evaluate their needs or to bring them assistance. These difficulties arise from security constraints, and the bad state of roads and bridges particularly during the rainy season.

The people affected by violence are still in need of humanitarian assistance. As you know, humanitarian organisations working in the field are here to support the Government in providing aid, without which the lives of hundreds of thousands of people would be in jeopardy. Unfortunately, these humanitarian organisations still face a funding shortfall which could have serious consequences if no solution is found.

What are some impressions of my visit ?

My visit has helped me to appreciate that the situation in CAR is unique and not as a result of a spill over from other conflicts from neighbouring countries. Despite a general improvement of the situation in some areas, the situation is still very volatile and the displaced population remains traumatised. Fear is very evident amongst the people who had to repeatedly leave their villages and watch their homes and livelihoods being looted, burnt and destroyed. Although some did start to return during 2008, hostilities in 2009 have led to further displacement and slowed the momentum of return. I hope that the efforts being made by all parties to restore peace and security will help limit further displacement and encourage voluntary return.

Some concerns

One of the greatest concerns I have after my five days in CAR is the protection of civilians and respect of their rights. I have raised this question during my meetings with the national authorities, and I have asked them and their partners to assume their responsibility of protecting the population. I also call on the authorities to guarantee unhindered humanitarian access. The existing security vacuum also fosters impunity, and enables the uncontrolled circulation of small arms.

Another concern is the persisting lack of funding, which has decreased significantly in 2009 compared to previous years. The current requirements of the Appeal are $97 million. This has been revised down from $116 million due to a lack funding to date. We have a carry-over of $24 million and have received only $27 million as fresh funding, leaving a gap of $48 million. Urgent action from the international community is required to support the efforts of humanitarian organisations.

I will stop here, and answer some of your questions.