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On January 6th, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) issued a press release highlighting the suffering of the people of South Sudan due to the heavy toll imposed by violence and taxes at various government levels across the country. The statement reads:
Communal violence remains the primary driver of conflict, according to the latest quarterly report issued by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on violence affecting civilians, which continues to exact a heavy toll on people across the country.
Between July and September 2024, the UN Peacekeeping Mission’s Human Rights Division documented 206 incidents affecting 792 civilians, of which 299 were killed, 310 injured, 151 abducted, and 32 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
Despite a 4% decrease in violent incidents (from 215 to 206) compared to the same period in 2023, the total number of victims increased by 24% (from 641 to 792). Furthermore, while the number of civilians killed decreased by 7% (from 321 to 299), injury statistics rose by 34% (from 231 to 310) during the reporting period.
The report specifically highlights the significant increase in abductions and CRSV compared to the same timeframe last year—abductions rose by 132% (from 65 to 151), and CRSV by 33% (from 24 to 32).
On a positive note, compared to the previous reporting period this year (April to June 2024), there was a 35% decrease in violent incidents (from 317 to 206) and a 25% reduction in civilian casualties (from 1,062 to 792).
While the highest number of victims killed and injured was documented in Warrap State, which accounted for 60% of the total number of civilian casualties, the majority of abductions occurred in Central Equatoria State, constituting 69% of all documented abductions in the country. Most of the victims were men.
Notably, tensions between government security forces and splinter groups of the National Salvation Front continue to threaten security and civilian protection across the Greater Equatoria region, countering the terms of the Cessation of Hostilities signed by both parties.
Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of UNMISS, stated, “The increase in violence against women and abductions is alarming. While UNMISS continues to proactively protect civilians, I call for coordinated efforts by national, state, and local authorities, as well as community leaders, to resolve long-standing grievances and find locally sustainable solutions to conflict drivers.” He added, “It is crucial that the Government of South Sudan swiftly investigates human rights violations and abuses and holds all perpetrators accountable.”
For its part, the UN Peacekeeping Mission continues its land, air, and riverine peacekeeping patrols, promoting community dialogues, enhancing security, and supporting electoral preparations.
Arop
