Fragile Peace Under Threat in South Sudan

The 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) offered a glimmer of hope for lasting peace after years of brutal civil war. However, unilateral amendments introduced by President Salva Kiir’s party have significantly undermined the agreement’s implementation, fueling renewed conflict and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Despite increased diplomatic efforts by the AU – including deployments of the Panel of the Wise and numerous field visits – concrete action has been lacking, resulting in a continued decline in human rights and living conditions for South Sudanese citizens.

Widespread Abuses and Targeting of Civilians

Since early 2025, fighting between government-allied forces and armed opposition groups, along with associated militias, has resulted in horrific violations of international humanitarian law across several states, including Upper Nile, Jonglei, Central Equatoria, and Western Equatoria. These abuses include the deliberate killing of civilians, the forced recruitment of children and adults into armed groups, rampant sexual violence, and the systematic destruction of vital civilian infrastructure. Government aerial attacks continue to pose a significant threat, frequently targeting densely populated areas.

The consequences of this violence are devastating. On December 3rd, following an attack by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and White Army on government positions in Jonglei state, government forces indiscriminately bombarded a secondary school in Nyirol while students were taking exams, resulting in injuries. Later, on December 29th, airstrikes near Lankien struck close to a Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders or MSF) health facility, a bustling market, and a critical airstrip, injuring at least 12 civilians, tragically claiming the life of one. Médecins Sans Frontières continues to provide critical aid despite the dangers.

Crackdown on Dissent and Erosion of Freedoms

Beyond the battlefield, the South Sudanese government has intensified its repression of dissent. Under the guise of a crackdown on crime in Juba, authorities have engaged in forced recruitment and other abuses. Arbitrary arrests of political opponents, journalists, and human rights activists are becoming increasingly common, stifling freedom of expression and hindering efforts to hold perpetrators accountable. The entrenched impunity enjoyed by those responsible for these atrocities perpetuates a cycle of violence and instability.

What steps can the international community take to break this cycle of violence and ensure the protection of South Sudan’s vulnerable population? And how can the AU effectively leverage its influence to enforce accountability and promote genuine peace?

The United Nations has also expressed deep concern over the situation. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) continues to monitor the human rights situation and provide protection to civilians, but its resources are stretched thin.

Frequently Asked Questions About the South Sudan Crisis

• What is the primary cause of the ongoing conflict in South Sudan?

  The ongoing conflict in South Sudan stems from a complex interplay of factors, including political rivalries, ethnic tensions, and competition over resources, exacerbated by the breakdown of the 2018 peace agreement.

• What role is the African Union playing in addressing the South Sudan crisis?

  The African Union is attempting to mediate the conflict and implement the peace agreement, but its efforts have been hampered by a lack of concrete action and the unilateral actions of the South Sudanese government.

• What are the most pressing humanitarian concerns in South Sudan right now?

  The most pressing humanitarian concerns include widespread food insecurity, displacement, lack of access to healthcare, and the protection of civilians from violence, particularly women and children.

• Are there any sanctions currently in place against South Sudan?

  A UN arms embargo is currently in place, but the AU is reconsidering its position on lifting these sanctions, a move that has drawn criticism from human rights organizations.

• What is a hybrid court and why is it important for South Sudan?

  A hybrid court, combining South Sudanese and international judges, is intended to prosecute those responsible for the most serious crimes committed during the conflict, addressing the issue of impunity and promoting accountability.