C.A.R. Crisis: When the State Is Absent

One of the world's poorest countries is slipping back into chaos, wracked by a spike in violence as international attention shifts away.

Despite a much-heralded election, the government wields little to no control beyond the capital Bangui. The country’s 14 armed groups are the only authority in most areas. In recent months, attacks on civilians have skyrocketed to levels not seen since conflict erupted in 2013. More than 600,000 civilians have been displaced. Peacekeepers are being ambushed and killed. The conflict has fragmented—with the UN warning of a “tipping point.”

With the government largely powerless to stem the violence, this project will focus on who has stepped up and stepped in amidst the absence of the state.

