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“A profound storm is brewing for the inhabitants of South Sudan, the world’s newest nation and one of its poorest,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres remarked during a press briefing at the UN Headquarters in New York.
South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in July 2011, but the optimism was short-lived as civil conflict erupted in December 2013. The fighting erupted between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with his rival, Riek Machar, leading to tragic loss of life, with estimates revealing hundreds of thousands of fatalities.
A peace agreement in 2018 brought a temporary cessation of hostilities and established a unity government. However, recent events, including the arrest of First Vice President Machar—who is a pivotal figure in the opposition—and rising military confrontations, have highlighted the precarious nature of that peace. The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan indicated that these developments pose a significant threat to millions.
The situation is exacerbated by the spillover effects of conflict from neighboring Sudan, as Guterres illustrated a grim scenario for South Sudan. “Let us be clear,” he stated. “What we are witnessing echoes the tragic civil wars of 2013 and 2016 that claimed around 400,000 lives.”
Multiple Crises Unfolding
Currently, South Sudan is grappling with what Guterres has characterized as a convergence of crises—a security emergency, political instability, humanitarian disaster, widespread displacement, economic collapse, and a severe lack of funding—all happening simultaneously.
The Secretary-General warned that half of the nation’s population is experiencing extreme food insecurity, with three out of four residents in need of humanitarian aid.
In addition, over one million individuals have crossed over from Sudan since the onset of its conflict last year, and reports of cholera outbreaks have further intensified the humanitarian situation.
“Though South Sudan may have faded from international focus, we cannot allow it to sink into hopelessness,” Guterres emphasized.
Urgent Calls for De-escalation and International Support
Guterres has appealed to the leadership of South Sudan to “cease hostilities and prioritize the welfare of the South Sudanese people.”
He urged the restoration of the Government of National Unity and the full realization of the peace agreement, which is crucial for facilitating free and fair elections scheduled for December 2026.
Additionally, he called for solidarity from the regional and global community in advocating for peace. “We stand firmly behind the initiative to deploy the [African Union] Panel of the Wise,” he noted, sharing that he had discussed this matter with the Chairperson of the AU Commission earlier that day.
The Secretary-General reflected on his longstanding relationship with the South Sudanese people, recalling his early work as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. “They harbored immense hopes and aspirations, but unfortunately, they have not received the leadership they truly deserve.”
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news.un.org