The U.S. Department of State updated its Travel Advisory for South Sudan on March 8, 2025, urging against travel due to significant security threats. An Ordered Departure for non-emergency personnel has been issued, maintaining the advisory level at Level 4 – Do Not Travel. The advisory details widespread violent crime and ongoing armed conflict as primary concerns.
On March 8, 2025, the Department of State revised its Travel Advisory for South Sudan, implementing an Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel from Juba. The advisory remains at Level 4 – Do Not Travel, superseding the advisory issued on July 31, 2023.
The updated advisory emphasizes significant security threats within South Sudan due to crime, kidnapping, and ongoing armed conflict. It summarizes that foreigners should avoid travel to the country, where violent crime, including shootings and robberies, is rampant, particularly in Juba.
The state of armed conflict involves clashes among various political and ethnic factions, contributing to instability. Weapons availability has amplified violence, with cattle raids leading to further disturbances across regions.
Crime rates are high, with incidents of carjackings, assaults, and abductions frequently reported, posing severe risks to foreign nationals. Many have suffered from violent incidents, including rape and armed robberies.
Journalism in South Sudan presents unique threats, as operating without the appropriate legal permits from the South Sudanese Media Authority is illegal. This can result in harassment, and the risks faced by journalists are compounded, with instances of assault and fatalities reported while covering the ongoing conflict.
The Travel Advisory update serves as a critical warning against travel to South Sudan due to escalating violence and crime. It highlights the ongoing armed conflict and the risks to foreign nationals, particularly journalists, stressing the urgency for non-emergency U.S. personnel to depart to ensure their safety.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
