Victims of sexual exploitation by MINUSCA peacekeepers in the Central African Republic face indifference and fear in reporting the abuses. Despite the mission’s claims of implementing systems to prevent and respond to such incidents, peacekeepers continue to commit assaults with impunity, creating a culture of silence and stigma among survivors.
Stigmatization
Local NGOs report a high incidence of abuse, yet many women refrain from seeking help due to concerns about reprisals and lack of confidence in the justice system. The MINUSCA has acknowledged the challenges but points to the environment’s vulnerability as a contributing factor. Efforts to address the issue have been marred by the normalization of gender-based violence and a lack of basic infrastructure and support services.