A video showing MINUSCA pilots dancing in a nightclub at Bangui, capital of Central African Republic, has triggered outrage.
The video sparked a wave of indignation among Central Africans, who wondered about the purpose of the contingent of MINUSCA spending the night in a nightclub, given that, according to the mandate, all contingents must remain at night in their bases.
MINUSCA members’ presence in nightclubs in Bangui has reportedly increased, with club-goers in Bangui reporting that the peacekeepers are often drunk and abusing drugs.
Experts have expressed fears that the situation of sexual abuse within MINUSCA will worsen if no action is taken.
This latest revelation adds to the list of cases of sexual exploitation and abuse involving MINUSCA peacekeepers.
The United Nations has recorded alleged cases of sexual exploitation and abuse involving more than 730 MINUSCA peacekeepers since 2015.
This video has angered the population of the Central African Republic about the actions of MINUSCA, which came to protect the peace and security of the citizens.
In addition, news of sexual violations with girls and minors, the situation requires immediate attention from both the United Nations and the international community to prevent further escalation of human rights violations and ensure the safety of the local population.