South Sudan: Urgent Need for International Scrutiny Amid Rising…

Human Rights Watch highlights the precarious situation in South Sudan during an interactive session at the UN Human Rights Council, pointing to escalating violence and a culture of impunity. The Commission reported serious human rights violations, and the need for accountability through the Hybrid Court remains urgent. Civic space continues to shrink under government repression, warranting robust international scrutiny and support.

During an interactive dialogue at the UN Human Rights Council on February 28, 2025, Human Rights Watch expressed gratitude to the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan for its recent report. The organization emphasized that South Sudan is currently experiencing a fragile transitional phase marked by escalating violence involving government forces and various armed groups, leading to serious human rights violations such as forced displacements and unlawful killings. Special attention was drawn to the ongoing targeting of civilians in southern central Equatoria, urging the government to take necessary measures to enhance civilian protection.

Despite the Parliament’s passage of key transitional justice legislation, the delay in operationalizing the Hybrid Court—an essential part of the Revitalized Peace Agreement—poses significant challenges to accountability, further complicating the search for lasting peace. Moreover, the continued deterioration of civic space is alarming, as the National Security Service utilizes extensive powers from the 2024 Act without judicial oversight, stifling fundamental rights. The arbitrary detention of Emmanuel Monychol, editor of the Dawn newspaper, is a striking instance of this worrying trend.

According to the Commission’s report, the sluggish execution of South Sudan’s peace agreement has fostered an environment of impunity, which in turn exacerbates human rights abuses. Urgent international efforts are required to emphasize human rights and accountability as the situation in South Sudan becomes increasingly precarious. It is of utmost importance for the UN Human Rights Council to extend the mandate of the Commission for another two years to continue its critical work in promoting accountability and protecting human rights.

In summary, South Sudan stands at a critical juncture with rising violence and human rights violations. The delay in implementing crucial transitional justice mechanisms, such as the Hybrid Court, undermines accountability and the prospects for sustained peace. The international community’s vigilance and action are paramount as the UN Human Rights Council is urged to prolong the Commission’s mandate to protect human rights and foster accountability.

Original Source: www.hrw.org