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28.10.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC briefing on the Central African Republic

Who Deputy      Permanent  Representative,  Ambassador           Sandra                  Jensen                  Landi                           
Who Deputy      Permanent  Representative,  Ambassador           Sandra                  Jensen                  Landi                           
When 28.10.2025

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I would like to start by thanking SRSG Rugwabiza for her briefing and for her good work and let me also welcome the representative of the Central African Republic to this meeting.

Allow me to make three points.

First, Denmark strongly supports MINUSCA and recognises its indispensable role across the Central African Republic.

Since its deployment, the Mission has been the backbone of support to the 2019 peace agreement, the protection of civilians, the facilitation of humanitarian operations and the preparation of elections.

It has enabled meaningful progress on Disarmament Demobilisation Reintegration and Repatriation — with 11 of the 14 signatory armed groups now disbanded. In many respects, MINUSCA is a Security Council success story. But that progress has come at real cost — civilians, peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel have paid with their lives to reach this point.

As the SRSG reminded us, these hard-won gains are not irreversible. They must now be consolidated. This requires renewed Council support and a clear expression of solidarity with the people of Central African Republic and the wider region.

Second, Mr. President,

In just over one month, the Central African Republic will hold four elections simultaneously — presidential, legislative, local and municipal. Reaching this juncture is a milestone, but also a major stress test.

We commend the Central African Republic authorities and MINUSCA for nationwide voter registration and for putting in place the security architecture needed for people to vote safely. Yet insecurity, particularly in Vakaga and along border regions, risks producing uneven access to the polls. Here again, MINUSCA’s presence is essential to ensure a safe environment and facilitate the process.

We further underscore the need for these elections to be inclusive with the full and meaningful participation of women, youth and all political actors.

Third, Mr. President,

Despite major efforts, humanitarian conditions in many areas remain catastrophic.

The Humanitarian Response Plan for CAR is among the most underfunded worldwide. Coverage has dropped sharply, leaving communities exposed to acute needs and protection risks.

Severe gaps persist in the north-east, the south-east and along transhumance corridors. Child recruitment by armed groups continues, and maternal mortality remains among the highest globally.

Humanitarian access is also highly constrained. During the rainy season, when roads are impassable, MINUSCA’s air assets are often the only viable channel for delivering essential medicines and life-saving support.

Mr. President,

In closing, the Central African Republic stands at a pivotal moment.

Denmark echoes the Secretary-General’s call to safeguard the gains achieved and to prevent reversal. As negotiations on the mandate renewal begin, we look forward to working with all Council members— to anchor the path ahead in peace, accountability and inclusion, and to preserve the significant progress already made.

Thank you.

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