Human rights investigators warn of rising violence risks in South Sudan

Independent human rights investigators have issued a warning about escalating threats to civilians and the fragile political transition in South Sudan after completing their latest fact‑finding mission, the 14th such visit in ten years. The team, operating under a multinational mandate, concluded that the security environment has deteriorated markedly since the last assessment, citing increased incidents of violence, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on humanitarian access across several states.

The investigators’ report highlights a pattern of attacks on civilian populations, including the use of heavy weaponry in populated areas and the targeting of aid workers, which they say undermines the peace agreement signed in 2018. They also note that political actors are intensifying power struggles, delaying the implementation of constitutional reforms and the scheduled national elections, thereby heightening the risk of renewed conflict. The findings call for immediate international engagement to protect civilians, ensure unhindered humanitarian operations, and support the agreed transition timeline.

The investigators urged the South Sudanese government, opposition groups, and the broader international community to take coordinated action to mitigate the identified risks. They emphasized that failure to address the security and political challenges could reverse recent gains in stability and jeopardize the country’s path toward lasting peace and democratic governance.