Central African Republic Making Strides Towards Peace and Stability, US Urges Continued Reform

NEW YORK, February 25, 2026 – The Central African Republic (CAR) has made significant progress toward peace and political stability following successful December elections, though lingering security concerns remain, according to remarks delivered by the United States Mission to the United Nations.

Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing, Andrew Curiel, the U.S. Deputy Political Coordinator, highlighted the historic elections as a key milestone demonstrating the country’s commitment to peaceful political processes. Curiel also noted substantial advances in the peace process, with 13 of the 14 signatory armed groups to the 2019 Political Agreement now formally demobilizing, and nine already considered completely dissolved and disarmed.

Furthermore, efforts to restore state authority have shown positive results, with a 65 percent increase in the deployment of public officials since 2024, contributing to an overall improving security situation. Curiel praised the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for its critical role in these developments.

Despite the gains, the U.S. stressed that challenges persist. Concerns were raised regarding lingering insecurity in parts of the CAR, particularly the violence connected to the conflict in neighboring Sudan and the continued contestation of state authority in the southeastern region.

Looking ahead, the U.S. urged a reevaluation of MINUSCA’s mission posture to consolidate gains and ensure a timely transition of responsibilities to the CAR government. Long-term peace, Curiel emphasized, will require sustained effort from CAR authorities and a strong commitment to security sector reform, ultimately leading to a professional and accountable national force.

The Deputy Political Coordinator concluded that while improved security is a commendable achievement, the ultimate measure of success is creating the conditions for the mission itself to be no longer necessary.