Violence against civilians in the Central African Republic (CAR) is complex, driven by numerous conflicts at different levels. A national-level peace agreement may contribute to stability, but cannot fully address these diverse conflict drivers. Efforts by the U.N. peacekeeping mission in CAR, MINUSCA, to support a political solution to the conflict have so far been undermined by armed groups’ competing economic interests; the CAR government’s lack of commitment; the persistence of diverse local conflicts; and the mission’s own weaknesses. In order to protect civilians from violence and promote stability, MINUSCA must shift its political strategy to navigate these challenges.
