A UN expert has raised alarm over a sharp rise in conflict-related trafficking in South Sudan, warning of deepening risks for children.
Siobhan Mullally, the UN special rapporteur on trafficking in persons, said ongoing violence has created a severe humanitarian crisis.
She said armed attacks on civilians are increasingly widespread, with children facing disproportionate harm across conflict-affected regions.
Mullally warned that displacement and restricted humanitarian access are worsening conditions for vulnerable communities across South Sudan.
She noted that 1.4 million people have fled conflict in Sudan, adding to 1.9 million already displaced within South Sudan.
The expert said conflict-related sexual violence has become normalised, describing trafficking of girls into sexual slavery and forced pregnancies.
She added that boys are also being forcibly recruited into armed groups, deepening cycles of violence and exploitation.
Mullally stressed that survivors face serious barriers to medical, psychological and legal support in already fragile systems.
She said abductions, forced recruitment and child marriage may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The UN expert urged stronger justice measures, saying impunity must end and victims require urgent protection and accountability.
