South Sudan on the Brink: A Forgotten Crisis Escalates
The United Nations has issued stark warnings about the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, highlighting a convergence of escalating violence, political instability, and a deepening humanitarian crisis. The country, already grappling with immense challenges, faces a potential slide back into full-scale civil war, compounded by the influx of refugees from neighboring Sudan.
A Dangerous Point for Peace
High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has described the situation as “a dangerous point,” emphasizing the strain on the 2018 peace agreement. Attacks on civilians are increasing, with both government and opposition forces, along with affiliated militias, launching assaults on residential areas in at least seven states, including Jonglei, where over 280,000 people have been displaced. January alone saw 189 civilian deaths, a 45% surge in rights violations compared to the previous month.
The Human Cost: Indiscriminate Attacks and Sexual Violence
The escalating violence is characterized by indiscriminate attacks, including aerial bombardments, deliberate killings, abductions, and conflict-related sexual violence. OHCHR monitoring has documented over 250 cases of conflict-related sexual violence, though the actual number is believed to be significantly higher. Opposition forces have similarly been implicated in the abduction of 550 civilians, marking a disturbing increase in this type of abuse.
Collapse of Military Discipline
A critical factor contributing to the escalating crisis is the apparent breakdown of military discipline on both sides of the conflict. In Jonglei and Eastern Equatoria states, troops have demonstrated a “near total disregard for civilian protection.” This lack of control has fueled the surge in attacks against vulnerable populations.
The Ripple Effect of Sudan’s Conflict
The war in Sudan is exacerbating the crisis in South Sudan. Over 1.3 million South Sudanese people have returned to the country after fleeing the conflict in Sudan, placing further strain on already limited resources and contributing to displacement. South Sudan is already one of the most displacement-affected countries globally, with nearly 10 million people requiring humanitarian assistance and over 2.3 million internally displaced.
Humanitarian Access Severely Hampered
The violent insecurity is severely hindering humanitarian access, with aid operations suspended in parts of Upper Nile and northern Jonglei states. Aid workers are also facing increased risks, with three killed earlier in the month in Jonglei and Upper Nile states. Despite assurances of improved access, the situation remains fragile, with access fluctuating unpredictably.
Hate Speech and Incitement to Violence
Rising tensions are fueled by hate speech and incitement to violence targeting entire communities and ethnic groups. A UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)-authenticated audio recording revealed a senior military official urging forces to “spare no lives” and destroy civilian homes and property.
A ‘Code Red’ for Human Rights
The UN’s human rights monitoring system is “flashing red” for South Sudan, signaling an urgent need for intervention. The High Commissioner has called for an immediate end to hostilities and a recommitment to inclusive dialogue. The number of people killed or injured in 2025 already exceeds 5,100, a 40% increase from 2024, including two UN staff members.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main cause of the current crisis in South Sudan?
A: A combination of escalating violence between government and opposition forces, a breakdown in military discipline, and the impact of the conflict in neighboring Sudan are driving the crisis.
Q: How many people have been displaced by the conflict?
A: Over 2.3 million people are internally displaced within South Sudan, and an additional 280,000 have fled their homes in Jonglei state recently. Over 1.3 million South Sudanese have returned from Sudan.
Q: What is the UN doing to address the situation?
A: The UN is monitoring the human rights situation, providing humanitarian assistance where access allows, and urging all parties to recommit to the 2018 peace agreement and engage in inclusive dialogue.
Q: What is the humanitarian situation like in South Sudan?
A: Nearly 10 million people require humanitarian assistance, and access to aid is severely hampered by ongoing violence.
Did you know? South Sudan is facing one of the world’s largest displacement crises, yet receives limited international media attention.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the situation in South Sudan by following updates from the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) and the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Learn more about the ongoing humanitarian crisis and how you can support relief efforts through organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
