UN Plans to Withdraw 4,000 Peacekeepers Ahead of CAR Elections

The United Nations is considering withdrawing 4,000 peacekeepers from its MINUSCA mission in the Central African Republic (CAR), a reduction that could significantly impact the stability of the region ahead of presidential elections scheduled for December 2025. This potential pullback represents nearly a third of the current 13,400-strong force.

This decision is largely driven by severe budget constraints, particularly following substantial funding cuts from the United States. The timing of the withdrawal raises alarms among international observers, as the CAR faces heightened risks of unrest and violence during the election period.

The MINUSCA mission has been in place since 2014, aimed at stabilizing a country plagued by civil conflict and humanitarian crises. With tensions already high, the anticipated reduction in peacekeeping personnel could exacerbate security gaps, leaving vulnerable populations at greater risk.

As the UN deliberates on this critical decision, the implications for the CAR"s electoral process and overall security landscape remain uncertain. International stakeholders are watching closely, as a similar situation unfolded in other regions, highlighting the delicate balance between funding and peacekeeping effectiveness. For further insights into related coverage, see our report on recent developments in international peacekeeping missions.