UN human rights chief alleges instances of sexual abuse by foreign troops in CAR

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein announced on Thursday that UN staff in the Central African Republic (CAR) recently learned that a girl was allegedly sexually abused around a year ago by a member of the French military force.

The girl, who is believed to have been in her mid-to-late teens at the time of the alleged abuse, gave birth to a child in April of this year.

"This is the latest in a series of appalling allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by foreign troops in CAR," Zeid said.

He noted that although this particular case did not involve UN peacekeepers, there have been a number of other cases in CAR and elsewhere did have involved UN peacekeepers.

"We simply have to find ways to prevent such odious acts being committed by any soldiers anywhere who are supposed to be protecting vulnerable populations," Zeid stressed.

The High Commissioner, who is currently visiting the Central African Republic, said that the French authorities have been informed of this latest allegation and the UN stands ready to assist in an investigation.

The UN human rights chief added that his office is working closely with the UN mission in CAR and with UNICEF which, through its partners, will provide psycho-social support and legal assistance for the girl and her family. Endit