Australia in Switzerland
Bern and Geneva
Switzerland, Liechtenstein

statement683

Human Rights Council - 28th Regular Session

Interactive Dialogue with Independent Expert on Central African Republic

Australian Statement

24 March 2015


While we recognise the progress made by the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission and French and European Union forces in the Central African Republic, Australia is deeply concerned by the ongoing human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law in the Central African Republic.

Putting an end to the prevailing culture of impunity for human rights abuses is an essential prerequisite for lasting peace and security. Australia calls on all parties to the conflict to abide by the commitments they made under the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed in Brazzaville on 23 July 2014. We call on all parties to engage constructively in national reconciliation efforts currently underway.

We note with concern the ongoing attacks on civilians, including acts of sexual violence against women and the forced recruitment of children as combatants. Australia continues to stress the absolute importance of the full and equal participation of women in efforts to achieve national reconciliation. We would welcome the Independent Expert’s views on how best to urgently improve the protection of their human rights, and those of children.

Australia thanks the Independent Expert for her ongoing work on this difficult issue.