Recent escalations in violence in Nasir County, South Sudan, have displaced thousands due to ongoing clashes between the SSPDF and local youth. The situation reflects broader failures in implementing the 2018 peace agreement. Recent troop deployments have intensified fears of violence, while airstrikes by SSPDF have threatened civilian areas, raising legal concerns under international humanitarian law. Immediate action is needed to protect civilians and restore community trust.
Recent violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, South Sudan, has displaced thousands amidst ongoing conflict between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and local armed youth. Renewed clashes began on February 14, 2025, with an SSPDF attack on civilians in a market, exacerbating tensions and leading to injuries, including that of a peacekeeper. These conflicts threaten to deepen the region’s crisis, driven by unrest between government forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLA/IO).
The violence highlights failures in addressing historical abuses and the stagnant implementation of the 2018 revitalized peace agreement, which includes crucial security reforms like disarmament and unification of armed groups. Political discord has hindered the peace process, leaving the nation vulnerable as clashes become more common due to a lack of cohesive military structures.
Communities in Nasir have voiced their desire for a unified military force instead of national defense troops associated with civilian abuses. However, recent troop deployments since February 22 have included allied ethnic militias not involved in the formal unification process, provoking fears of forced disarmament and violence. In response, local youth began mobilizing, while the army denied intentions to disarm them, attributing unrest to SPLA/IO incitement.
On February 25, the SSPDF conducted airstrikes on SPLA/IO positions, which also struck civilian areas, increasing the risk of further violence. Such acts may violate international humanitarian law due to indiscriminate attacks on non-targets, raising concerns over potential war crimes.
Authorities must enhance civilian protection and restore trust with local communities, necessitating input from residents in security planning and accountability for past abuses. The international community is urged to assist in fostering accountability. Without prompt action, civilians will bear the brunt of this ongoing conflict.
The violence in South Sudan’s Nasir County highlights critical failures in addressing past abuses and implementing peace agreements. The deployment of forces not part of a unified military exacerbates tensions, threatening civilian safety. There is an urgent need for strategic interventions to protect civilians and rebuild trust within communities to prevent further escalation of violence. International support is crucial in ensuring accountability and upholding humanitarian principles.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
