South Sudan is in an extended transitional phase as it prepares for elections in December 2026. The UN envoy highlights the need for urgent reforms in security, governance, and humanitarian aid. Despite some progress, major challenges remain in fulfilling the commitments of the 2018 peace accord, exacerbated by ongoing violence and economic crises. The situation is further complicated by logistical demands placed on UN peacekeeping operations.
As South Sudan enters an extended transitional period this month, the UN envoy has cautioned that urgent action is needed to meet commitments of the 2018 peace accord ahead of the February 2027 deadline. Initially designed to stabilize the nation following years of conflict, the Revitalized Peace Agreement has faced numerous delays in achieving political and security benchmarks, notably through four extensions since its inception.
Nicolas Haysom, the Special Representative to the UN, emphasized during a briefing to the Security Council that citizens of South Sudan are eager for leaders to advance the peace agreement benchmarks. “There is a strong desire for the leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement – without further delay.” He called for a push in areas such as security reform, electoral preparations, and constitutional updates.
Despite some progress, significant obstacles remain for the upcoming elections in December 2026. Key requirements like a fully deployed unified security force and comprehensive voter education have not yet been resolved, raising concerns over the effectiveness of the electoral process. “We have not yet seen the previously promised harmonized workplan with an operational timetable for elections,” he explained, highlighting how funding issues hinder advancement.
Escalating communal violence continues to threaten security, especially for vulnerable populations such as women and children. Recent violent incidents in Western Equatoria and illegal checkpoints contribute to a volatile situation. The ongoing war in neighboring Sudan has further destabilized the region, resulting in violent incidents in South Sudan.
The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan is dire, with more than a million Sudanese refugees joining an already alarming 9.3 million people in need of aid. The economic situation is worsening, indicated by soaring inflation at 107% and various food prices doubling. Coupled with deteriorating health conditions, the region is challenged to address multiple crises simultaneously.
UNMISS (United Nations Mission in South Sudan) faces operational challenges as the Government has demanded vacating parts of its headquarters within 45 days, complicating logistical efforts. Haysom characterized this request as a strain on the mission’s capabilities, limiting their support for security and humanitarian aid in critical areas.
Reaffirming the UN’s unwavering commitment, Haysom stated that they stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” with the people of South Sudan in their journey towards stability and democratization, highlighting the significance of international support in this transitional phase.
In 2018, South Sudan signed the Revitalized Peace Agreement to formally address conflicts that plagued the nation since its independence in 2011. This agreement aimed to establish a democratic government, enhance security, and promote political stability. Despite initial optimism, multiple extensions of the transitional timeline reflect ongoing challenges, including political infighting and inadequate infrastructure for conducting democratic elections. The United Nations and various international entities continue to monitor and assist this transition.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious as it navigates a prolonged transitional phase. Although some progress has been made, numerous obstacles hinder the fulfillment of critical peace agreement commitments. Urgent reforms in security, governance, and humanitarian assistance are essential for moving toward a stable and democratic future. The international community’s support is vital as South Sudan grapples with significant humanitarian and operational challenges.
Original Source: news.un.org
