The Central African Republic (CAR) has suffered from a cycle of violent coups since gaining independence in 1960. In 2016, the country’s first peaceful, democratic election raised hopes that CAR was beginning to stabilize, but more recently, violence between armed groups has escalated. U.S. Institute of Peace programs in CAR seek to establish effective two-way communication between government officials and communities on local security concerns. USIP’s Initiative to Measure Peace and Conflict Outcomes works with U.S. government-funded programs in CAR to broaden their ability to share information and boost overall effectiveness. 

While the situation has started improving in 2016, late 2017 was unfortunately marked by an upsurge in violence between armed groups in the North and South of the country. Conflict- affected populations usually flee towards areas deemed safe, where they stay until the situation stabilizes, with waiting time that can be anywhere from a few days to, in some cases, a few years. These safe areas are often rural regions with limited facilities to support displaced populations.

In July 2019, approximately 595000 persons were internally displaced in CAR. The regular tensions increase the already important needs of local communities. Access to shelter, water, hygiene, sanitation and education as well as food security and livelihood issues are daily challenges for these populations. In addition, an Ebola epidemy broke out and is finally officially recognist by the World Health Organization