Crackdowns on Democratic Space – Africa.com
governments central africa Civil and political rights were suppressed with impunity in 2024, particularly in electoral contexts, Human Rights Watch said in its report today. world report 2025. Both government security forces and non-state armed groups have committed serious human rights violations during armed conflicts in the region. international humanitarian law There is little fear of being held accountable.
Human Rights Watch reviewed the human rights practices of more than 100 countries in the 35th edition of this 546-page world report. In most parts of the world, executive directors Tirana Hassan Write In her introductory articlethe government cracked down and falsely arrested and imprisoned political opponents, activists, and journalists. Armed groups and government forces unlawfully kill civilians, drive many from their homes, and prevent access to humanitarian aid. In more than 70 national elections in 2024, many authoritarian leaders have won support with their discriminatory rhetoric and policies.
“Central African governments’ suppression of fundamental rights and freedoms, particularly in elections and referendums, has raised concerns about government monopoly power,” said Lewis MarchDirector of Central Africa at Human Rights Watch. “Nonetheless, there is still hope for justice for victims of abuse in places such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic, where new efforts are underway to prosecute individuals suspected of serious violations.”
- election on Chad and Rwanda These activities took place in an environment widely regarded as neither free nor fair, with authorities suppressing the freedom of expression of political opponents, the media and voters. The authorities are Burundi Limit the political space of the opposition ahead of elections starting in 2025.
- In the conflicts in the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the actions of warring parties have hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid, and civilians have paid a heavy price. Crimes were committed by the Congolese army and allied militias, as well as the Rwandan army and the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group Violation of the laws of war North Kivu Province in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. hostilities forced 2.5 million people Escape from home. more than 700,000 People are fleeing to Chad to escape the armed conflict in Sudan.
- Accountability results in Central Africa in 2024 were mixed, with some progress in justice efforts. exist RwandaPrison officials and inmates were found guilty of murder and assault on prisoners after a landmark trial at Rubavu prison, which has given hope to other torture victims. special criminal court central african republic The country has been under investigation since 2013 for international crimes committed in the country. There is little accountability for abuses committed by combatants in DRC’s North Kivu province or DRC security forces. Chadwho killed at least 11 people in a post-election celebration shooting in May.
Human Rights Watch said Central African governments should fulfill their obligations under international law and take stronger action to safeguard the rule of law and fundamental freedoms, including during elections. Authorities should also strengthen the protection of civilians during armed conflict, including by facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, while holding to account those responsible for violations, regardless of their rank or position.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Human Rights Watch (HRW).
