GENOCIDE  WATCH

After years of marginalization, the predominantly Muslim Séléka rebels seized power in 2013, sparking the rise of anti-Balaka militias claiming to defend Christian communities. Both sides have committed widespread human rights abuses; however, Muslim civilians have been disproportionately targeted, with an estimated 80% driven from the country. Within the Muslim population, Fulani (Mbororo) Muslims have faced particular targeting, often viewed as “foreigners” and insurgents.

Since the December 2020 elections, former rivals from the Séléka and anti-Balaka factions have formed unlikely alliances under coalitions such as the Coalition des Patriotes pour le Changement (CPC) to oppose the current government. These armed groups, along with Russian Wagner mercenaries supporting the government, have been implicated in massacres, sexual violence, and other crimes against humanity.