Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan cautioned that ongoing violence, political tensions, shrinking civic space, entrenched corruption, and persistent impunity continue to endanger the population and threaten the country’s planned transition to democracy. During a four-day visit, the Commission met with government representatives, political and security sectors, civil society, and other stakeholders. It called on authorities to take urgent action to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and create conditions for inclusive political dialogue ahead of elections planned for December.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest country since gaining independence in 2011, experienced civil war triggered by a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar less than three years after independence. Despite a 2018 peace agreement, fighting persists. Commission Chair Yasmin Sooka, visiting Jonglei state, heard accounts from survivors of recent violence involving sexual assault, killings, displacement, and family separations. Survivors reported a lack of access to medical, psychosocial, and other essential services, including urgent health care.
The Commission expressed concern over killings, displacement, attacks on civilians, and disruptions to humanitarian operations amidst increasing insecurity for aid workers. It highlighted a recent attack on a UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) patrol in Jonglei that killed two peacekeepers and injured others, calling for investigation and accountability. The Commission noted the critical need for continued support for humanitarian operations and UNMISS, particularly amid ongoing funding shortages.
As South Sudan prepares for its first planned elections since independence, the Commission warned that holding elections without essential safeguards, such as genuine and inclusive political dialogue, could trigger renewed conflict.