Syria: Conflict continues in the country with further infighting reported between armed groups in Deir-ez-Zor, clashes between opposition and government forces in Idleb, and governmental bombardments on the governorates of Rif Dimashq, Dar’a and Aleppo. To date, over 2.4 million people have fled the country, and an estimated 6.5 million are internally displaced. Meanwhile, the latest round of Geneva II peace talks between Syrian Government representatives and opposition leaders came to an end with little progress being made. No date has been set to resume the talks with the discussion about political transition proving a major stumbling block.
Central African Republic: Violence and ethnic-religious clashes between armed groups continue to trigger significant population displacement, notably in the northwest of the country. To date, the conflict has displaced an estimated 714,000 people including over 288,000 in the capital Bangui alone. At least 1.6 million are considered severely food insecure and fears of a full-scale food and nutrition crisis are growing. Security risks continue to hinder the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Some actors have called for a more robust military intervention, and plans are underway to increase French military presence in the country to at least 2,000 soldiers.
South Sudan: Access is reportedly improving in several parts of the country, but hostilities are still reported in Jonglei and Unity states. To date, the crisis has displaced an estimated 857,000 people, 150,000 of whom have crossed to neighbouring countries such as Uganda and Ethiopia. Meanwhile, the second round of peace talks between the Government of South Sudan and insurgent representatives began in neighbouring Ethiopia, following negotiations which secured a ceasefire in late January.
Last Updated: 18/02/2014 Next Update: 25/02/2014
