Morocco’s leadership drives peace and justice in Central African Republic

Morocco has solidified its position as a pivotal force in the reconstruction of the Central African Republic (CAR), with the United Nations highlighting its decisive contributions to justice and institutional reform in the conflict-stricken nation.

A leading role in peacebuilding

In its 2024 report on peacebuilding, the UN Secretary-General commended Morocco’s strategic leadership and diplomatic efforts as chair of the CAR configuration within the UN Peacebuilding Commission. Since assuming this role in 2019, Morocco has played a critical part in mobilizing political and financial support for judicial and security reforms in CAR, stabilizing fragile institutions and fostering international commitment to long-term peacebuilding.

The report particularly credits Morocco’s diplomacy for bolstering the Special Criminal Court, a hybrid tribunal established to prosecute serious crimes, and for advancing grassroots reconciliation initiatives. These efforts, coordinated with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) and the UN Development Program (UNDP), have been supported by the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and implemented in close collaboration with CAR’s national authorities.

Sustaining momentum after peacekeeping missions

The report underscores the importance of sustaining institutional reforms during the transition from peacekeeping to peacebuilding. It warns of potential setbacks in judicial reform, transitional justice, and prison system improvements as missions draw down. To address these risks, the UN recommends expanding the use of adaptable PBF funding and promoting tighter coordination between agencies such as the Peacebuilding Commission and the Global Focal Point for the Rule of Law (GFP).

It also calls for early integration of GFP partners — including OHCHR, UN Women, UNICEF, and UNODC — in peacebuilding programs and emphasizes the need for frequent joint team deployments from logistical hubs like the UN base in Brindisi, Italy.

Morocco as a model for sustainable peace

Morocco’s steadfast leadership is framed as a benchmark for Africa’s growing influence in international peacebuilding. The UN report highlights Morocco’s commitment to embedding justice as a cornerstone for sustainable peace, praising its role in fostering global political will for lasting change.

In addition to its diplomatic efforts, Morocco remains one of the UN’s most active troop-contributing nations, with over 1,700 Moroccan peacekeepers currently deployed in missions worldwide. This dual role as both a peacekeeper and diplomatic leader reinforces Morocco’s growing reputation as a key actor within the UN multilateral system.

The UN concludes that Morocco’s actions are not just advancing stability in CAR but also setting an example of how African nations can lead in shaping international peacebuilding efforts.