Bishops in Central African Republic find some progress toward peace, but violence continues

January 14, 2015

The Catholic bishops of the Central African Republic report that the country’s security situation has improved, but unacceptable levels of violence remain.

In a statement entitled “Therefore choose life,” the bishops say that international peacekeeping missions have made progress, but the country remains victimized by “unconventional armed groups that continue to recruit young people who take drugs, using them against peace, unity and the common good.” They also lament the busy traffic in firearms, nourishing a culture of violence, and vigilante violence against people who are accused of witchcraft.

On the positive side of the ledger, the bishops say that some citizens have made a conscious decision to work for peace. "The Muslim and Christian communities are beginning to talk to each other and seek peace,” they say.

 

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Further information:

• "Signs of hope but still too much violence, also due to the strong movement of weapons", say the Bishops (Fides)