The report from two years of independent investigations and analysis uncovers how oil and non-oil revenues are misappropriated through opaque dealings and politically tied contracts, depriving millions of South Sudanese of basic services.
“Our report illustrates the nation’s plundering: corruption is central, driving South Sudan’s decline,” stated Yasmin Sooka, Chair of the Commission.
“It fuels hunger, collapses health systems, causes preventable deaths, and triggers deadly resource conflicts.”
Diversion of funds
Upon independence in 2011, South Sudan faced a legacy of divisive conflict, state repression, and poverty after a brutal civil war with Sudan.
Fourteen years later, ruling elites struggle for resource control.
The report found that since 2011, Sudanese government’s oil revenues have surpassed $25.2 billion, with little allocated to essential services. Systemic corruption cripples education, public health, and justice systems.
“Diversions aren’t abstract budget failures; they result in preventable deaths, malnutrition, and educational exclusion,” said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández.
“Three-quarters of child deaths are preventable, yet money feeds patronage and private pockets instead of medicine or sanitation.”
Multiple corruption schemes
The ‘Oil for Roads’ programme illustrates one corruption scheme. Intended to build infrastructure, it failed to deliver. About $2.2 billion flowed into political patronage through this off-budget scheme.
The report also describes Crawford Capital’s schemes in non-oil revenue, where little taxes reach government budgets, and illegal levies on humanitarian actors impede critical food aid.
A need for change
A 2018 peace agreement promised structural change and better public financial management, but reforms remain unfunded and unimplemented.
Prioritizing certain reforms is among the 54 recommendations the report offers for South Sudan to meet the population’s needs, strengthen accountability, and end impunity.
“When public revenue turns into private fortune, peace falters. For transition survival, economic crime accountability and human rights investment are essential,” said Ms. Sooka.
The UN Human Rights Council established the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan in March 2016. The three Commissioners are not UN staff and are unpaid for their work.
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