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UNICEF concerned about situation of children and women amid deteriorating security in the north of CAR
GENEVA, 26 November 2008 - While fighting in neighboring DRC has received a lot of attention, the humanitarian situation in the Central African Republic is also precarious, says UNICEF, which is concerned about the rising numbers of displaced children and women amid the deteriorating security.UNICEF hopes that ongoing insecurity will not threaten the peace talks due to be held in the capital, Bangui, from 5 to 20 December. The talks will bring together government and rebel groups in an effort to bring much-needed stability to CAR.
Last week two significant attacks occurred in the CAR between different rebel groups and the government’s army, one of which led to half of a town’s population fleeing into the bush.
Ongoing security incidents could destabilize the government and seriously slow down efforts at sustainable development. In addition, it threatens to swell the number of internally displaced people, which already number about 200,000.
More insecurity could provoke a regional movement of people and create even more volatility that would severely strain the ability of the CAR's humanitarian community to reach and support displaced people, according to UNICEF.
While UNICEF recently negotiated the release of children associated with armed forces from a rebel faction, so far 100 have been released, UNICEF is concerned that more tension could undermine efforts to secure the release and reintegration into society of more children.
“UNICEF hopes the CAR's ongoing political dialogue will pave the way for peace and recovery. But right now the country is on the edge. Since the beginning of the peace dialogue, many positive developments for women and children have flourished. More fighting can only undermine this progress. It is time for the international community to pressure all the parties to show restraint,” said Mahimbo Mdoe, the UNICEF Representative in CAR.
About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.
For further information, please contact:
Veronique Taveau UNICEF Geneva +41229095716 vtaveau@unicef.org
Patrick McCormick UNICEF New York +1212326 7426 pmccormick@unicef.org
