Increase in Attacks on Civilians in South Sudan

A Rise in Violence Against Civilians Sparks Concern in South Sudan

A new report by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reveals a disturbing surge in violence against civilians last year, including a sharp rise in conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). The findings are based on firsthand accounts from victims and witnesses, as well as insights gathered during field missions and from protection service providers and partners.

Killings, Abductions, and Sexual Violence on the Rise

According to UNMISS, 2024 saw 1,019 violent incidents that affected a total of 3,657 civilians. These included 1,561 deaths and 1,299 injuries. Additionally, 551 people were abducted—among them at least nine humanitarian workers—and 246 cases of CRSV were reported.

This represents a 15% increase in violent incidents compared to 2023, alongside a 9% rise in the number of victims.

The majority of the violence stemmed from armed communal clashes, especially those involving community-based militias and civil defense groups, which accounted for nearly 80% of the casualties. Warrap state saw the highest number of deaths and injuries, largely due to these local militia groups. Meanwhile, Western Equatoria state reported the most cases of sexual violence, and Central Equatoria recorded the highest number of abductions, largely attributed to suspected factions of the National Salvation Front. Jonglei state also experienced frequent abductions, allegedly by armed elements from the Murle community.

Calls for Immediate Intervention

Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for South Sudan and Head of UNMISS, urged immediate action from all levels of government and society. “Protecting civilians and preventing violence requires urgent action by national, state, and local authorities, as well as local communities themselves,” he said.

Haysom emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict through dialogue, reconciliation, and community engagement. He reiterated that the primary responsibility for civilian protection lies with the South Sudanese government and called for stronger action to defuse tensions and bring perpetrators to justice.

UNMISS continues to support peace efforts by conducting thousands of patrols annually, promoting community dialogue, and facilitating political and peacebuilding processes.

Worsening Political and Security Situation

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has faced persistent instability since its independence in July 2011. A civil war erupted in 2013 between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and supporters of then-Vice President Riek Machar, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions.

A peace agreement was reached in 2018, leading to the formation of a unity government. However, recent developments, including Machar’s arrest and renewed military mobilization, have heightened fears of a return to armed conflict.

Addressing the UN Security Council this week, Haysom warned that the worsening political and security climate threatens to erode the fragile peace built in recent years. He stressed that urgent and coordinated action is needed to safeguard the progress made and prevent a relapse into widespread violence.