Enhanced Interactive Dialogue under Item 4: Human Rights in South Sudan

Mr. President,

This is a joint statement between EAFORD and Geneva International Centre for Justice

Despite the deteriorating situation in South Sudan peace agreements have been reached and signed and promises by the government have been made without keeping. Innocent families and communities have greatly suffered at the hands of the warring parties and while violence persists, other conflict-related catastrophes have ensued and spread towards unaffected areas. Moreover, efforts to protect and secure civilians are minimal and face challenges.

About 2 million civilians from South Sudan have fled to neighbouring countries since the start of the conflict and violence between SPLA and SPLA-IO forces in December 2013. The large numbers of refugees have put accommodation and funding in a dire situation. In terms of displacement a total of almost 2.3 million South Sudanese with roughly 1 million children have been forced to flee their homes due to violence and violence-related occurrences. Concern and consideration for the physical and mental fatigue as well as trauma that the children must endure has to be seriously taken into account.  

In addition to the violence, starvation is another serious issue many South Sudanese face. In February 2017 three UN agencies declared famine in parts of Unity State. Ensuing armed-conflict further complicates improving the situation as it endangers and restricts humanitarian aid from reaching people in need, particularly in terms of food, water, and health.

Considering these challenges, we ask the Commission and all other relevant stake-holders to what extent have local peace-making and peace-building groups and associations been involved in ending the conflict by way of actively participating in consultations of peace, reconciliation, healing, and the reconstruction of South Sudan and what is being done to ensure their active and regular participation?

Thank you,