The Climate, Peace and Security Fact Sheet examines the Central African Republic’s vulnerability to climate change amidst ongoing conflict. It highlights challenges such as weak state control, resource mismanagement, and the impact of regional instability on local communities. The fact sheet advocates for urgent international action to tackle these interrelated issues effectively.
This fact sheet addresses the multifaceted challenges of climate change, conflict, and security in the Central African Republic (CAR). The country experiences significant vulnerabilities stemming from socio-ecological challenges combined with persistent insecurity. Factors contributing to this vulnerability include weak state authority, mismanagement of natural resources, and low resilience within households and communities. Although there has been some improvement in the security landscape in recent years, it remains unstable. Non-state actors, such as the factions of the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC), self-defense militias, and criminal elements sporadically engage in clashes with government forces and foreign mercenaries, including those from the Wagner Group, now operating as Africa Corps, particularly in rural areas. Moreover, the changing climate and security deterioration in surrounding regions, such as the Sahel and the Great Lakes, has forced transhumant pastoralists to migrate into CAR territories earlier than usual, exacerbating tensions over resources. The conflict in Sudan has further intensified humanitarian pressures in CAR, particularly impacting the regions of Vakaga and Haute-Kotto, necessitating urgent attention and action from the international community.
The Central African Republic is uniquely positioned in a region grappling with the dual challenges of climate change and armed conflict. The impacts of climate change have been amplified by longstanding issues of governance and resource management, which leave the population particularly vulnerable. Ongoing instability and outbreaks of violence undermine any efforts to adapt to or mitigate environmental changes. Recent patterns of migration driven by climate factors and regional conflicts have also strained local resources, highlighting the interconnection between ecological and security issues.
In summary, the Central African Republic faces pressing issues related to climate change, conflict, and security that are deeply intertwined. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort by the international community, emphasizing the need for enhanced resilience at both local and national levels. Engagement strategies must consider the complexities of governance, resource management, and the humanitarian impacts of regional conflicts.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
