The decision, outlined by Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp, is part of a 10% budget reduction for embassies, consulates, and permanent representations abroad, totalling approximately EUR 70 million.
The Juba embassy is one of five set to close, alongside those in Bujumbura (Burundi), Havana (Cuba), Tripoli (Libya), and Yangon (Myanmar).
For South Sudan, the closure marks a significant shift in diplomatic relations with the Netherlands, a country that has been a key partner since South Sudan’s independence in 2011.
The Dutch embassy in Juba has supported development programs, peacebuilding initiatives, and humanitarian efforts, particularly in areas such as agriculture, water management, and gender equality.
The decision comes at a time when South Sudan continues to grapple with economic challenges, ongoing conflict, and humanitarian crises, raising concerns about the potential impact on bilateral cooperation.
Minister Veldkamp stated that the closures are necessary to achieve structural savings of EUR 25 million, with an additional four missions slated for closure in the near future.
The Dutch government said the decision was made in light of the current geopolitical situation, with the ministry prioritising economic and strategic considerations.
While the Netherlands may open new representations in other regions, such as Syria, depending on global developments, no immediate plans were announced to maintain a diplomatic presence in South Sudan.
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs plans to provide further details on the closures and potential expansions in its 2026 draft budget. For now, the closure of the Juba embassy underscores the broader challenges facing South Sudan as it navigates a complex global diplomatic landscape.
In March, the German Embassy in Juba temporarily closed amid growing political tensions in the country. No plans to resume operations were immediately made public.
This was followed by the United States announcing plans to close its embassy in Juba as part of a broader proposal by the Trump administration to shut down 10 embassies and 17 consulates worldwide.
The Government of Sweden officially closed its office in Juba on Tuesday, 13 August 2024, as a part of Sweden’s reform agenda to reshape its international cooperation efforts.
The closure of diplomatic missions in the country has received mixed reactions. While some commentators see it as a path to international isolation, others say the move allows the Juba regime to bear the full responsibilities of its citizens.
