Central African Republic remains poor despite billions in aid
Researchers find a deep disconnect between the globalized economy and local subsistence living.
The Central African Republic (CAR) remains one of the world's poorest nations, with a GDP per capita around $400 that has barely changed since independence. Despite receiving billions in international aid since the 2012-2016 crisis, poverty has not significantly reduced. Factors like geography and political crises exist, but do not explain the lack of visible impact from aid.
Researchers studying national budgets from 2000 to 2024 found that persistent poverty stems from a disconnect between the globalized economy and the local subsistence economy. International actors promise security through missions like MINUSCA and national forces, but populations experience exactions instead of protection. Local peace committees are often disrupted, failing to bridge the gap between high-level security efforts and community needs.
The majority of Central Africans rely on subsistence agriculture, with the monetized economy affecting few people outside Bangui. While resource exploitation like timber, gold, and diamonds accounts for over 90% of exports, it generated less than 2 million euros in public revenue in 2022 and created few jobs.
Why it mattersThe Central African Republic's persistent poverty is linked to a disconnect between its export-driven global economy and its subsistence-based local economy, affecting the majority of its population.