The security situation in South Sudan deteriorates as tensions escalate between the SPLM and SPLM-IO, risking a return to civil war. Recent violence from the White Army and SSPDF attacks on civilians have caused significant casualties and displacement. The UN and regional partners are engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain peace, while political turmoil persists. Failure to enact peace initiatives may lead to widespread conflict and humanitarian crises.
The security situation in South Sudan has sharply declined, primarily due to escalating tensions between the two dominant political factions: the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) led by President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) led by First Vice President Riek Machar. This escalating conflict poses a significant risk of the nation slipping back into civil war.
On March 4, 2023, a youth militia known as the White Army seized control of military barracks previously occupied by the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF). In response, the SSPDF launched aerial bombardments across civilian spaces in the Upper Nile region, employing munitions suspected of containing flammable accelerants. These attacks resulted in numerous casualties and the displacement of around 100,000 people.
Concerns of escalating violence in the Upper Nile are exacerbated by reports of further troop mobilization from both the White Army and the SSPDF, including the potential recruitment of child soldiers. On March 24, clashes between the SSPDF and SPLA-IO forces erupted in Juba, increasing fears of widespread conflict similar to the civil wars of 2013 and 2016. The UN has issued warnings regarding the risk this poses to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.
Politically, tensions have risen with many military and civilian officials from the SPLM-IO being removed or going into hiding. Reports indicate that Riek Machar has also been placed under house arrest as of March 26, 2023. Nicholas Haysom, the head of the UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), has voiced concerns about the country’s precarious situation. He emphasized the need to return to the Revitalized Peace Agreement as the only viable escape from ongoing conflicts.
The UN, alongside various regional bodies like the African Union and IGAD, is making diplomatic efforts to avert a large-scale war that could devastate South Sudan and its neighboring countries. However, these endeavors hinge on the willingness of the involved parties to engage in constructive dialogues and peace strategies.
The UN Secretary General has urged South Sudan’s leaders to prioritize the well-being of their citizens, stating, “Put down the weapons” and emphasize peace over conflict.
Background:
South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in 2011 after a prolonged struggle. However, internal power struggles led to civil war within just two years, causing ethnic violence and humanitarian crises. A peace agreement in 2018, the Revitalized Peace Agreement, aimed to restore stability but has seen slow implementation and delays in electoral processes. Current tensions risk not only the peace deal but also worsen the humanitarian situation, with over nine million people requiring assistance, especially as the economy struggles.
Established in 2011, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) aims to ensure peace and security while fostering development. Its current focus involves preventing a return to civil war, promoting self-reliance, and addressing governance gaps to facilitate democratic elections.
The situation in South Sudan remains critical, with increasing violence driven by political power struggles. The potential for civil war looms as violence escalates, prompting international efforts for diplomatic resolution. The success of these initiatives depends on the commitment of all parties to engage in peace efforts and prioritize the welfare of their citizens. Failure to act risks not only the peace deal but the stability of the entire region as South Sudan faces a significant humanitarian crisis.
Original Source: peacekeeping.un.org
