Central Africa Faces Crises: Calls for Climate Action and Political Stability

Central African nations face severe crises involving climate shocks, humanitarian needs, and political instability. Over three million people were displaced this year, highlighting urgent requirements for international support. Abdou Abarry of the UN emphasized the significance of the Congo Basin forest and called for increased funding for climate resilience, humanitarian assistance, and regional security efforts. Upcoming elections and ongoing dialogues for dispute resolutions illustrate the need for collaborative governance in the region.

Central African nations are currently facing a myriad of challenges stemming from climate shocks, humanitarian crises, and political fragmentation. Abdou Abarry, the UN Special Representative for Central Africa, reported to the Security Council that this year alone, extreme weather conditions have led to the displacement of over three million individuals, compounding existing socio-economic difficulties in the region. There is an urgent call for enhanced international support to address these pressing issues effectively.

Mr. Abarry emphasized the critical role of the Congo Basin forest, often referred to as the “second green lung” of the planet, in climate regulation. The forest’s ability to absorb 1 to 1.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually was highlighted during COP29. Nonetheless, the fulfillment of international climate financing commitments remains alarmingly low, with less than 15 percent currently met. Furthermore, humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate under the strain of population displacements and health threats like Mpox, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), necessitating immediate global attention and support.

In addition to climate and humanitarian concerns, recent electoral developments were discussed. With legislative elections in Rwanda held in July, the UN Regional Office for Central Africa is preparing for upcoming elections in Burundi, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Central African Republic (CAR) next year, alongside elections in Congo and São Tomé and Príncipe scheduled for 2026. Countries such as Chad and Cameroon are seeking electoral support from the United Nations, indicating a continued reliance on the organization for assistance.

Security challenges persist as well, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin area, where insurgencies and Boko Haram-affiliated attacks pose a significant threat. Mr. Abarry noted the UN’s advocacy for enhancing the Multinational Joint Task Force to strengthen regional security efforts. Tensions between nations are also showing signs of progress, with Gabon and Equatorial Guinea referring their border dispute to the International Court of Justice, and discussions ongoing between Chad and CAR concerning border security.

Looking to the future, Mr. Abarry delineated several priorities for the region, including bolstering international funding aimed at climate resilience, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding initiatives. The UN plans to collaborate with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) for a summit in February 2025 to address these critical issues. In conclusion, Mr. Abarry expressed an optimistic vision for 2025 characterized by peace, justice, and prosperity informed by a renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation adhering to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and the Pact for the Future.

The challenges currently faced by Central Africa are multi-faceted and involve environmental, humanitarian, and governance issues. Frequent climate shocks due to extreme weather events not only pose immediate threats to livelihoods and safety but also exacerbate existing vulnerabilities among populations. Additionally, political turbulence, evidenced by scheduled elections and desires for international electoral support, highlights the region’s need for stability and stronger governance mechanisms. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in assessing the urgent calls to action outlined by UN representatives.

In summary, Central Africa is experiencing significant crises driven by climatic disturbances, humanitarian needs, and political instability. Urgent international support for climate initiatives and humanitarian assistance is essential for alleviating these challenges. As the region prepares for important elections and seeks to enhance security cooperation, the commitment to a revitalized multilateral approach is critical for establishing lasting peace and resilience. The upcoming ECCAS summit offers a platform for addressing these pivotal issues effectively.

Original Source: news.un.org