The people of the Central African Republic have suffered decades of violence and human rights abuse. Government forces, armed groups and criminal gangs have killed unarmed men, women and children with impunity. Women and girls have been raped, homes and granaries destroyed. The catalogue of violations and abuses includes abductions for ransom, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and torture. Amnesty International is calling for action, led and coordinated by the African Union and involving local and foreign governments and groups, to protect civilians and end impunity in the Central African Republic.