UN demands demilitarization of Abyei after deadly violence

NEW YORK – The United Nations Security Council has issued a forceful condemnation of the recent violence in Abyei, where over 85 people have been killed in the past month, and called for the immediate demilitarization of the disputed territory.

Clashes between armed youth from neighboring Warrap and Northern Bahr el Ghazal states in November and December resulted in the deaths of 75 and 10 people, respectively, and displaced an unknown number of civilians.

In a strong statement on Monday, the Security Council expressed grave concern over the continued presence of armed forces within the Abyei box, a violation of the region’s demilitarization agreement between Sudan and South Sudan.

“The members of the Security Council strongly condemn the violence in Warrap State, South Sudan, and southern Abyei Administrative Area that has claimed approximately 75 lives in November 2023 and 10 lives in Abyei in early December 2023,” the statement, signed by Council President José Javier, declared.

The Council reiterated its demand for the complete demilitarization of Abyei, emphasizing the need to uphold the 2011 Agreement and relevant Security Council resolutions.

The statement further urged the South Sudanese transitional government to investigate the killings and attacks on civilians in both Warrap and Abyei, and to take steps to contain the violence and defuse tensions between affected communities.

Recognizing the crucial role of peacekeeping forces in the region, the Council also underscored the importance of UNISFA’s efforts in protecting civilians, supporting community dialogue, and facilitating reconciliation.

Additionally, it acknowledged the role of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism in fostering peace, security, and stability in Abyei and the surrounding area.