The Central African Republic is at a major turning point in its history. The country is just emerging from a very violent conflict, during which thousands of human lives were lost and one-third of the population was displaced. After a three-year transition, and with the support of the international community, authorities successfully created the conditions required to conduct credible presidential and legislative elections. Central African citizens mobilized to express their desire for peace and to break with the cycle of past violence. Their exemplary democratic maturity ensured the electoral process was peaceful, despite palpable tensions. The welcome given Pope Francis in Bangui in November 2015 and visible reconciliation efforts demonstrate the population wishes to turn the page on this conflict.