The Central African Republic CAR , a landlocked country in the center of Africa, possesses abundant natural and mineral resources such as gold, diamonds, uranium, phosphates, nickel, cobalt, copper and coltan. However, despite these resources, the country remains one of the poorest and most fragile in the world.
Historically, weak governance and public institutions have failed to adequately provide basic services to the population. Power is primarily concentrated in the capital city of Bangui and poorly controlled, porous borders have allowed rebel movements and armed groups to proliferate in large parts of the country.
The rebels committed numerous abuses against civilians, while loosely organized self-defense groups known as the Anti-Balaka fought the rebels, but also targeted Muslim civilians. The level of violence during this period far surpassed the instability witnessed in previous decades. Thus, the period from January to January represents a critical juncture for the CAR for several reasons.
The period began with a new upheaval following presidential and legislative elections held on December 27, In response, an armed group alliance called the Coalition of Patriots for Change CPC launched a rebellion in December , seeking to capture major towns and the capital.
Although the elections proceeded as planned, some polling stations remained closed and many voters did not participate due to intimidation. A state of emergency was imposed between January and August To counter rebel movements, the government changed its strategy entirely and sought new allies, finding support from Rwanda and Russia.
