Erosion of Democratic Rights in Central Africa
In 2024, governments across Central Africa intensified suppression of civil and political rights, especially during elections, according to Human Rights Watch’s World Report 2025. Armed conflicts have seen both state forces and nonstate groups committing serious international law violations with little accountability. The report highlighted how over 100 countries experience increasing governmental crackdowns on dissent, resulting in wrongful arrests of activists and media personnel.
Violations Amidst Armed Conflict
Executive Director Tirana Hassan noted that armed factions and government troops have unlawfully killed civilians and obstructed humanitarian access. In 2024’s elections, authoritarian leaders thrived, bolstered by discriminatory speeches. “Governments across Central Africa repressed fundamental rights and liberties, notably around elections and referendums,” said Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director at Human Rights Watch. Victims in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African Republic are seeing new efforts for justice.
Suppression of Opposition Voices
In Rwanda and the Central African Republic, dissenting political voices faced harsh prosecution, while the political opposition in Burundi, Chad, and the Democratic Republic of Congo suffered grave abuses. Media freedoms faced relentless assault, particularly in Burundi and DR Congo where governmental control stifled free expression ahead of elections. Reactively, political space for opposition figures shrank as the 2025 elections approached.
Humanitarian Crisis and Accountability Issues
Civilians bore the brunt in the Central African Republic and DR Congo conflicts, with armed groups obstructing humanitarian efforts. Notably, the Congolese military and associated militias perpetrated laws-of-war violations, leaving approximately 2.5 million individuals displaced. Additionally, over 700,000 fled to Chad due to the violence stemming from Sudan’s armed conflict.
Glimmers of Justice and Accountability
Accountability progress remained inconsistent across Central Africa in 2024. In Rwanda, a pivotal trial led to prison officials and inmates being convicted for crimes at Rubavu prison, igniting hope for further accountability. Nonetheless, in DR Congo, violators faced minimal repercussions, including a tragic shooting by security forces in Chad that killed at least 11 individuals.
Call to Uphold Human Rights
Human Rights Watch urged Central African governments to meet international law requirements and strengthen the rule of law, emphasizing the need for fundamental freedoms during elections. Enhanced civilian protection during conflicts and accountability for abuses are crucial to rebuilding trust and security in these war-torn regions.
– Central African governments suppressed political rights in 2024. – Armed conflicts resulted in grave humanitarian law violations. – Media freedoms and political opposition faced severe attacks. – Over 2.5 million people displaced due to conflicts. – Inconsistent accountability for human rights abuses noted in the region.
In summary, Central Africa faced grave challenges in 2024 regarding civil liberties, with notable crackdowns on democratic rights and fierce political opposition suppression amid armed conflicts. Efforts for accountability show mixed results, highlighting the urgent need for governments to uphold human rights and ensure justice for victims. The ongoing humanitarian crises further necessitate immediate and robust action to protect vulnerable civilians.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
