UN: Worsening South Sudan crisis puts civilians at risk

Speaking in the capital Juba, after the commission concluded its 14th visit to South Sudan, Commission Chairperson Yasmin Sooka said the mission continues to hear accounts of displacement, insecurity, human rights violations and failures by political and security authorities to protect civilians and address abuses.

“Visit after visit, we continue to hear from people who bear the consequences of violence, displacement, insecurity and the failures of those with political and security responsibilities to prevent and address those harms. What troubles us most is that we continue to hear similar stories of suffering – families uprooted from their homes, communities living in fear, women and girls facing serious violations, and people struggling to access even the most basic services. The patterns have changed little, while the human cost continues to grow. South Sudanese people deserve better than to have their lives shaped by recurring cycles of violence and uncertainty,” said Sooka.

Sooka emphasized that South Sudan still has an opportunity to prevent further deterioration through genuine political dialogue, civilian protection and safeguards for a peaceful and credible transition.