Press release: Communal violence continues to exact heavy toll on civilians across South Sudan
Communal violence remains a key driver of conflict, taking a heavy toll on people across the country, according to the latest quarterly briefing from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) on violence affecting civilians.
Between July and September 2024, the human rights component of UN peacekeeping missions recorded 206 incidents affecting 792 civilians, of whom 299 were killed, 310 injured, 151 abducted and 32 suffered conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) .
Although the number of violent incidents decreased by 4% compared to the same period in 2023 (from 215 to 206), the total number of victims increased by 24% (from 641 to 792). Furthermore, while the number of civilian deaths decreased by 7 per cent (from 321 to 299) during the reporting period, the number of injured increased by 34 per cent (from 231 to 310).
The report specifically raises concerns about sharp increases in kidnappings and CRSV compared to the same period last year – a 132% increase in kidnappings (from 65 to 151) and a 33% increase in CRSV (from 24 to 32) .
On a positive note, compared to the previous reporting period this year (April to June 2024), violent incidents fell by 35% (from 317 to 206) and civilian casualties fell by 25% (from 1,062 reduced to 792 people). Recorded.
While Warrap State recorded the highest number of casualties, accounting for 60% of total civilian casualties, most kidnappings occurred in Central Equatoria State, which accounted for 69% of all kidnappings recorded in the country. Most of these victims are men.
Notably, tensions between government security forces and NURS splinter groups continue to threaten the safety and protection of civilians in the Greater Equatoria region, violating the terms of the cessation of hostilities signed by both parties.
“The rising trend of violence against women and abductions is alarming. While UNMISS continues to proactively protect civilians, I call on national, state and local authorities and community leaders to work together to address long-standing grievances and bring peace to the conflict to find local and sustainable solutions,” said Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of Mission in South Sudan. “Above all, I urge the government of South Sudan to swiftly investigate human rights violations and abuses and hold all perpetrators accountable.”
The United Nations peacekeeping mission continues to conduct land, air and river peacekeeping patrols to promote community dialogue, enhance security and support election preparations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
