Australia in Switzerland
Bern and Geneva
Switzerland, Liechtenstein

statement722

Human Rights Council - 29th Regular Session

Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on the Central African Republic

Australian Statement

30 June 2015

Australia is deeply concerned about the ongoing violence and human rights abuses being committed in the Central African Republic, and particularly abhors the sexual violence reportedly being committed against children and women.

The impact of the ongoing violence on all citizens, but particularly on women and children, is deeply distressing and requires urgent action. It is estimated that the majority of children in the Central African Republic now suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, having witnessed, or been the victim of, horrific violence. A lasting peace must be found and perpetrators of violence held to account.

Australia welcomes the outcome of the Bangui Forum, and supports the recommendations made in the Republican Pact; in particular, disarmament, demobilisation, reintegration, and repatriation. Australia also strongly supports the Justice and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendation to end impunity. All parties must engage constructively in national reconciliation efforts currently underway.

Australia welcomes the recent visit by the Independent Expert, and thanks her for her ongoing work.