Human cost of violence in South Sudan ‘continues to grow’

A UN human rights commission expressed deep concern after its 14th fact-finding mission to South Sudan, citing renewed violence, political tensions, shrinking civic space and entrenched corruption as growing threats to civilians and the country’s transition to democracy. During a four-day visit, investigators met government officials, security forces, civil society and other stakeholders, urging authorities to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access and enable inclusive political dialogue before December elections.

The Commission’s Chair, Yasmin Sooka, traveled to Jonglei state and met survivors of recent violence, who described sexual violence, killings, displacement and separation from family members, often without access to medical or psychosocial support. Sooka highlighted that despite repeated visits, the patterns of harm persist while the human cost continues to rise, emphasizing that South Sudanese deserve protection from recurring cycles of violence and instability.

Investigators also raised alarms over attacks on civilians, disruption of humanitarian operations and increased insecurity for aid workers, noting that funding shortfalls exacerbate the crisis. They condemned a recent attack on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei that killed two peacekeepers and injured others, demanding an investigation and accountability for those responsible.

The Commission warned that elections scheduled for December lack essential safeguards, including inclusive political dialogue, risking renewed conflict and atrocity crimes. It stressed the need for genuine dialogue with opposition groups, civil society and marginalized communities, while highlighting corruption as a persistent obstacle to peace and justice, with impunity remaining a systemic issue despite years of documented abuses.