U.S. Increases Engagement In Central African Republic Crisis

As inter-communal fighting continues to roil the Central African Republic and the resulting humanitarian crisis worsens, the United States is increasing its engagement to help end the violence and restore legitimate governance there.

U.S. Increases Engagement In Central African Republic Crisis

W. Stuart Symington, a veteran foreign service officer with extensive experience in Africa, has been named to serve as U.S. Special Representative to the C.A.R. Previously stationed in Rwanda, Niger and Djibouti, among other postings, he will play a leading role in shaping and coordinating U.S. strategy toward the C.A.R. to end the violence, address humanitarian needs and, with our regional and international partners, help move the nation toward an inclusive political transition process leading to democratic elections early next year. In this capacity, he will work closely with the African Union, the European Union and United Nations, which are also deeply engaged there.

The appointment of a Special Representative follows several steps our nation is taking to address the critical needs in the C.A.R. The U.S. committed $100 million dollars this year to support African Union and French forces working to restore security there. This is in addition to nearly $67 million dollars in humanitarian aid and $7.5 million for conflict mitigation and human rights programs.

Ultimately, however, the people of the C.A.R. hold their future in their own hands. We continue to urge all parties to end the violence, establish judicial mechanisms for ensuring accountability for those suspected of perpetrating human rights abuses and move ahead toward a better future for their nation and people.