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Central African Republic emergency

Emergency appeal

Central African Republic emergency

Insecurity, conflict and climate shocks continue to fuel displacement in the Central African Republic and its neighbouring countries. UNHCR is scaling up efforts to support voluntary returns, strengthen protection and support durable solutions.

Countries affected: Cameroon | Central African Republic | Chad | Democratic Republic of the Congo | Republic of the Congo

Wooden boats float on a wide, muddy river. One bears a UNHCR flag.

The Central African Republic is facing a humanitarian crisis marked by insecurity, climate shocks, and protracted displacement

Insecurity, armed conflict, and climate shocks continue to drive displacement across the Central African Republic, where over 460,000 people are internally displaced and more than 700,000 remain refugees in neighboring countries - mainly in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chad, and the Republic of the Congo. Despite the challenges, 2024 saw the highest number of refugee returns in seven years, with nearly 20,000 Central Africans returning home, including over 16,000 with UNHCR's support. With the number of IDPs projected to exceed 550,000 by the end of 2025, UNHCR is stepping up efforts to support safe and dignified returns, deliver reintegration assistance such as cash support and shelter kits, and respond to urgent protection needs—particularly for survivors of gender-based violence, who continue to report high levels of physical and psychological abuse.
 
Through the CAR Solutions Support Platform and the Yaoundé Declaration, UNHCR and regional partners are laying the groundwork for sustainable reintegration and cross-border cooperation, including the launch of a development hub pilot in 2025.
Emergency overviews

Global Report:
2024 | more available soon


Global Appeal:
more available soon

Protracted crisis: UNHCR may designate some situations as protracted crises. This is an informal classification that indicates a long-term crisis with widespread and deepening humanitarian needs. The Central African Republic falls into this category. Learn more about UNHCR emergency classifications.  

My hope is that young people can return home to rebuild our country. For my part, I would simply like to see with my own eyes the day when we will be back.

Ali Issa, Sudanese Imam now refugee in the Korsi site, Central African Republic

What is UNHCR doing to help?

UNHCR is leading efforts to protect and support displaced Central Africans both inside the country and in the region. 

In 2024, UNHCR facilitated the voluntary return of over 16,000 refugees and supported more than 18,000 returnees with cash assistance to rebuild their lives. Inside CAR, UNHCR is providing shelter kits, supporting health and education services, and coordinating relocation of IDPs from overcrowded sites to safer areas. To address gender-based violence, UNHCR operates 31 safe spaces and a dedicated helpline, offering psychosocial support and dignity kits to survivors. 

Regionally, UNHCR works with governments and partners to ensure refugees have access to healthcare, education, and livelihoods. Through the CAR Solutions Support Platform and the Yaoundé Declaration, UNHCR is also working to promote long-term solutions by linking humanitarian action with development and peacebuilding efforts.

Financial overview

Population overview

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Data

Visit the UNHCR data portal for the latest data and statistics on refugees and other displaced persons in the CAR.

Visit the Data Portal

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Operational updates

Find latest operational updates, information on UNHCR's operational response, budgets and funding for the Central African Republic.

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