Costs from violence in South Sudan ‘continue to rise’

That United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan warned that ongoing violence, political tensions, shrinking civic space, entrenched corruption and persistent impunity continue to put society and plans for a transition to democracy at risk.

During the four-day visit, the Commission met with various representatives from the Government, political and security sectors, civil society and other stakeholders.

They called on authorities to take urgent steps to protect civilians, allow humanitarian aid to reach those in need and create conditions for inclusive political dialogue ahead of elections scheduled for December.

No real change

South Sudan was the youngest country in the world to gain independence from Sudan in July 2011. Civil war erupted less than three years later, sparked by a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar. Fighting continues despite a peace agreement in 2018.

Commission Chair Yasmin Sooka traveled to Jonglei state and met with survivors of recent fighting in the north there.

She heard horrific stories of sexual violence, murder, displacement and separation from family members. Some survivors also shared that they did not have access to medical, psychosocial or other essential support, including those facing serious and urgent health needs.

“Visit after visit, we continue to hear from people who are bearing the brunt of violence, displacement, insecurity and the failure of those with political and security responsibilities to prevent and address these impacts.,” he said.

“The pattern has not changed much, while the number of fatalities continues to increase. The people of South Sudan deserve better than their lives shaped by repeated cycles of violence and uncertainty.”

Concerns for humanity are increasing

The Commission expressed concern over killings, displacement, attacks on civilians, disruption of humanitarian operations and increasing insecurity for aid workers.

Members noted that at a time when humanitarian needs are enormous, amidst ongoing funding shortfalls, support for humanitarian operations and the UN Mission in South Sudan (DON’T MISS) very important.

They expressed concern over the recent attack on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei that killed two peacekeepers and left others injured, and called for an investigation and accountability of those responsible.

Peace and ‘credible polls’

The visit comes at an important time as South Sudan prepares to hold general elections – its first since independence.

Commission recently warned tthat elections without critical safeguards, including truly inclusive political dialogue, could spark new conflicts and increase the risk of atrocity crimes.

Commissioner Barney Afako said despite the stalled implementation of the 2018 Revitalization Agreement, it remains vital for a democratic and peaceful South Sudan.

“Even as the country heads towards elections, political and civil space has narrowed, while many guarantees and conditions for peaceful and credible elections are still missing.he said.

“South Sudanese citizens do have the right to vote; that right must be protected by ensuring that they can participate freely, compete fairly, and resolve any electoral disputes through credible courts. These are safeguards that will prevent the election from becoming a trigger for violence and disruption.”

The Commission reiterates its call for sincere and inclusive political dialogue. This includes the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), led by Machar, as well as opposition groups, civil society, women and youth.

Corruption and impunity

Meanwhile, corruption continues to be an obstacle to peace and security. The Commission noted a lack of progress since its 2025 report outlining how entrenched corruption and the diversion and misallocation of public resources impact human rights.

“Over the years, the Commission has documented serious violations and identified the same underlying problem: impunity. Too often, those responsible for serious violations are not held accountable, while the institutions responsible for justice remain weak and under-resourced,” said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández.