South Sudan stands at a perilous crossroads. The latest press release from the UN Human Rights Chief, echoed by statements from international actors, paints a grim picture of a nation once again threatened by the specter of civil war, widespread human rights abuses, and a deepening humanitarian catastrophe. The Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties unequivocally condemns the actions of South Sudanese leaders who are perpetuating violence and obstructing the path to peace, democracy, and justice.
Escalating Hostilities and Renewed Civil War Threat
The UN Human Rights Chief’s warning comes amid a marked escalation in hostilities across several regions, most notably Upper Nile, Nasir, and Western Equatoria. Clashes between government forces, opposition groups, and allied militias have resulted in:
- Mass civilian displacement and loss of life: Thousands have been forced from their homes, with credible reports of unlawful killings and attacks targeting non-combatants.
- Destruction of property and livelihoods: The violence has devastated local economies and left entire communities without access to basic necessities.
This renewed violence is not an isolated phenomenon but a direct consequence of power struggles among the country’s political elites. As Commissioner Barney Afako of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan stated, “What we are witnessing now is a return to the reckless power struggles that have devastated the country in the past… South Sudanese have suffered enough. They deserve respite and peace, not another cycle of war”.
The UK and EU have both sounded alarms that South Sudan is “on the brink of a new civil war,” urging all parties to halt hostilities and recommit to the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS). The Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties joins these calls, condemning leaders who prioritize personal power over the well-being of their people.
Arbitrary Arrests, Political Repression, and Shrinking Civic Space
The press release and supporting reports highlight an alarming pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions, particularly targeting opposition leaders and critical voices. Notably:
- The arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar and at least 22 political and military personnel since March 2025, often without due process.
- Suppression of media freedom: Journalists, such as Emmanuel Monychol, editor-in-chief of the Dawn newspaper, have been detained without judicial oversight for months.
- Use of repressive legislation: The National Security Service continues to operate under the 2024 Act, enabling arrests without warrants and the suppression of fundamental rights.
These actions violate both domestic and international legal standards, undermining the prospects for a peaceful and inclusive transition. The EU and Human Rights Watch have expressed particular concern over the disappearance of journalists and the compression of civic space, warning that such repression breeds further instability and impunity.
Surge in Hate Speech and Incitement
The UN Human Rights Chief’s press release also draws attention to a surge in hate speech and incitement, particularly on social media and among political actors. This rhetoric is fueling ethnic tensions and increasing the risk of mass violence. The South Sudan Media Authority and international observers have warned that unchecked hate speech could tip the country into broader conflict, echoing the tragic patterns seen in previous cycles of violence.
Widespread Human Rights Violations
The human rights situation in South Sudan remains dire, as documented by the UN, EU, and independent experts:
- Conflict-related sexual violence: There are “appalling reports” of sexual and gender-based violence, with victims left without access to medical care or justice. The Anti-Gender-Based Violence Bill, drafted five years ago, remains unimplemented.
- Violence against children: Forced recruitment and use of children in armed conflict persist, alongside other abuses.
- Rampant corruption: Misappropriation of public funds continues to deprive citizens of essential services, undermining the very basis of existence for millions.
- Impunity for abuses: The slow implementation of transitional justice mechanisms—especially the Hybrid Court—has entrenched a culture of impunity, perpetuating cycles of violence and rights violations.
Delayed Transition and Stalled Peace Process
A recurring theme in all international statements is the repeated delay of South Sudan’s transitional period and elections. The EU and UK have expressed deep disappointment at these delays, urging authorities to use this time to establish necessary institutions, implement the peace agreement, and prepare for credible elections. The failure to do so risks further instability and the collapse of the fragile peace process.
International and Regional Responses
The international community remains united in its concern and condemnation:
- Mandate extensions: The UN Human Rights Council has extended the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, recognizing the ongoing need for independent monitoring and accountability.
- Calls for accountability: The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, EU, UK, and UN have all called for the immediate release of political detainees, the cessation of hostilities, and the implementation of transitional justice mechanisms.
- Technical assistance: The OHCHR and other bodies continue to provide technical support, but stress that independent investigative mechanisms remain essential given the scale and gravity of abuses.
Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties’s Stance
The Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties strongly condemns the actions of South Sudanese leaders who are waging civil war, repressing dissent, and obstructing the path to peace. Our condemnation is rooted in the following arguments:
- Violation of international law: Arbitrary arrests, attacks on civilians, and suppression of free expression are clear violations of South Sudan’s obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law.
- Betrayal of the peace process: By undermining the R-ARCSS and delaying the transition, leaders are betraying the aspirations of the South Sudanese people for peace, democracy, and justice.
- Endangering regional stability: Renewed conflict in South Sudan threatens to destabilize the entire region, with potential spillover effects for neighboring countries.
- Perpetuating suffering: The ongoing violence, repression, and corruption are directly responsible for the suffering of millions, including women, children, and marginalized communities.
Recommendations
In light of the above, the Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties urges:
- Immediate cessation of hostilities: All parties must halt violence and engage in genuine dialogue, with the support of regional and international mediators.
- Release of political detainees: Arbitrarily detained opposition leaders, journalists, and civil society actors must be released, and their legal rights respected.
- Implementation of transitional justice: The Hybrid Court and other mechanisms outlined in the peace agreement must be operationalized to address past abuses and break the cycle of impunity.
- Protection of civic space: The government must respect freedom of expression, protect journalists, and repeal repressive legislation.
- Accountability for hate speech: Authorities must take decisive action against those inciting violence and ethnic hatred, including through robust regulation of media and social platforms.
- International engagement: The UN, African Union, IGAD, and donor states must maintain pressure and support for peace, human rights, and accountability in South Sudan.
South Sudan’s future hangs in the balance. The international community, regional actors, and civil society must not waver in their support for the South Sudanese people’s quest for peace, justice, and dignity. The Geneva Council for Rights & Liberties stands in solidarity with all those working to end the violence and build a just, democratic, and peaceful South Sudan. We reiterate our condemnation of those leaders who continue to wage war and violate the rights of their own people, and we call for urgent, coordinated action to avert another deadly crisis.
