Central African Republic Crisis

What’s happening in the Central African Republic?

In 2013, hundreds of thousands of men, women and children fled their homes in the Central African Republic (CAR) in desperation, many seeking refuge in neighbouring Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Chad. They arrived in dire condition, having walked for days with little water or food. Many refugees showed signs of brutal attacks and extreme malnutrition.

The situation had been improving to a safer and more secure environment since the violence of 2013, but unfortunately violence sparked once again in May 2017. With fresh and fierce clashes between armed groups—more than 1 million Central Africans have been forced to flee their homes—the highest level of displacement since violence broke out.

UNHCR is working across the country to provide life-saving protection, distribute essential items and set up new community shelters. We’re also on the ground in neighbouring countries—helping refugees survive and support themselves, long into the future.

How has the situation in CAR changed over the last few years?

Refugees and internally displaced people had begun to return home. After 2016, there was steady improvement in the area, however, this was once again interrupted by insecurity and violence. Places that had not been affected by violence before were now dangerous.

What’s the situation in the villages they’ve left behind?

Many villages in CAR lie deserted, with houses burnt, cattle stolen and fields of coffee, manioc and peanuts looted and vandalized by armed groups.

How are families fleeing?

Thousands of people walk for weeks and hide in the forests in a desperate bid to escape, sometimes with nothing to eat or drink. Those who arrive at sites for the displaced have witnessed traumatic scenes of violence, and malnutrition rates have risen to serious levels.