Central African Republic’s War Crimes Court on the Brink: A Justice System in Peril
The Special Criminal Court (SCC) in the Central African Republic (CAR) is facing a critical funding crisis that threatens its very existence. Established to prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity, the court is now at risk of closure, potentially denying justice to thousands of victims and survivors. Amnesty International has issued urgent calls for financial support, warning of a “catastrophic setback” in the fight against impunity.
A Hybrid Court Facing Imminent Collapse
Inaugurated in 2018, the SCC is a unique hybrid court, combining Central African and international judges and prosecutors. It was created to address atrocities committed during the ongoing conflicts in the CAR, filling a critical gap in accountability where national courts lacked the capacity and jurisdiction. Since opening its first trial in 2022, the SCC has indicted 36 individuals and currently has 15 investigations and three trials underway, with over 30 persons wanted for prosecution.
The Funding Shortfall: A Cascade of Consequences
The SCC operates entirely on voluntary contributions from states and international organizations. A significant withdrawal of funding, particularly from the United States – previously the court’s second-largest donor – has created a severe financial shortfall. Currently, the United Nations and the European Union are the only remaining financial supporters, but even the UN’s contributions are uncertain due to its own liquidity crisis. Without immediate financial assistance, the court is projected to run out of funds by June 2026.
The impact of the funding cuts is already being felt. Staff has been reduced by 25%, with a disproportionate impact on foreign experts. The number of judicial police teams has been slashed from four to one, hindering investigative capabilities. Critically, the witness protection section has lost over half its personnel, jeopardizing the safety of those who come forward to testify.
Victims Left Behind
The potential closure of the SCC has dire consequences for victims and survivors. They are already facing barriers to accessing justice, including the inability to cover transportation and accommodation costs to attend trials. As one member of a local survivors’ association stated, victims fear that “justice will be extinguished due to lack of resources.” The court represents a vital hope for accountability, and its collapse would leave countless individuals without recourse.
A Warning for International Justice
The crisis facing the SCC highlights the fragility of international justice mechanisms that rely on voluntary funding. Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for West and Central Africa, emphasized that “National courts do not have the resources and capacity to carry out the mandate entrusted to the SCC.” The SCC’s failure could set a dangerous precedent, undermining efforts to hold perpetrators of war crimes and crimes against humanity accountable in other conflict zones.
What’s Been Achieved?
Despite the challenges, the SCC has made significant strides. It has successfully opened four trials, with two cases currently in the appeal phase and two others pending. In 2024, the court issued an arrest warrant for former President François Bozizé, and the case was sent to trial in January 2026, even in his absence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Special Criminal Court? The SCC is a hybrid court in the Central African Republic established to investigate and prosecute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
- Why is the SCC at risk of closure? The court is facing a severe funding crisis due to the withdrawal of support from key donors.
- What will happen if the SCC closes? Thousands of victims and survivors may be denied justice, and impunity for serious crimes could prevail.
- Who is responsible for funding the SCC? The SCC relies entirely on voluntary contributions from states and international organizations.
Pro Tip: Supporting international courts like the SCC is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability for atrocities. Advocate for increased funding and political support for these vital institutions.
Learn more about Amnesty International’s work on the Central African Republic here.
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