A grim report by the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan paints a troubling picture of the country in the lead-up to its first-ever post-independence elections scheduled for December 2024. The report warns of persistent mass violence, entrenched human rights violations, and a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Despite a 2018 peace deal aimed at ending a brutal civil war that claimed 400,000 lives, the UN commission finds critical aspects of the agreement remain unfulfilled. These include establishing a permanent constitution, unifying armed forces, and creating transitional justice institutions.
“Time is running out,” declared Commissioner Barney Afako, emphasizing the need for leadership to address these critical issues before the elections. He warns that failure to do so could jeopardize the fragile peace and further erode human rights.
The report finds continued political and logistical hurdles threaten the elections themselves, with uncertainty surrounding the post-election legal framework. Additionally, the commission highlights a troubling trend of violence instigated by political and military elites, raising concerns about the sincerity of peace efforts.
The report paints a devastating portrait of the impact on civilians, particularly women and girls who are targeted for violence and abduction. Furthermore, South Sudanese children are denied access to essential services like education and healthcare, jeopardizing their development and the nation’s future. The continued use of child soldiers by armed forces is another alarming finding.
“The lack of political will to implement solutions is unacceptable,” stated Yasmin Sooka, chair of the commission, emphasizing the need for concrete action to address the well-known drivers of violence and repression.
South Sudan’s path forward hinges on its leaders fulfilling their promises to bring lasting peace and end the cycle of human rights violations. The upcoming elections serve as a crucial test for the country’s stability and its ability to secure a brighter future for its citizens.
