UN documents surge in civilian killings in South Sudan

JUBA – The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported on Wednesday a sharp increase in civilian casualties in the world’s youngest country, with 468 people killed between January and March 2024.

This was revealed in the UN Mission’s new human rights annual brief report on violence affecting civilians released in South Sudan.

The figure represents a 24% surge in violent incidents compared to the same period in 2023, according to the report.

A total of 240 incidents affected 913 civilians, with 328 injured, 70 abducted, and 47 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence.

The report said that inter or intra-communal violence by community-based militias or civil defense groups remains the primary source of subnational violence, which accounts for 87 percent of victims, roughly 796 individuals across the country.

Civilians in Warrap State suffered the highest rates of violence, accounting for 37% of total civilian victims nationwide, followed by Jonglei and Eastern Equatoria states.

However, the report also highlighted the continued risk posed to civilians by military operations involving government security forces and armed groups in parts of Central Equatoria state.

Nicholas Haysom, the Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) and head of UNMISS, emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address underlying grievances and prevent violence, especially as the country approaches its first elections.

“We cannot emphasize enough the urgent need for collective action by national, state and local authorities, as well as community leaders and national politicians, to resolve long standing grievances peacefully, especially as South Sudan approaches its first elections,” he said.

Haysom disclosed that the mission continues to protect civilians across the country with thousands of peacekeeping patrols conducted by land, air, and boat.

“The Mission also helps bring communities together to reconcile and build peace through dialogue. Additionally, UNMISS continues to actively support political and peace processes, including security and justice sector reform, constitution-making, and preparations for elections,” he said.