Revised Travel Advisory for South Sudan: Do Not Travel Warning

The Department of State has updated its Travel Advisory for South Sudan as of March 8, 2025, maintaining a Level 4 – Do Not Travel rating due to ongoing security threats. Non-emergency U.S. government personnel have been ordered to leave Juba amid risks including armed conflict and violent crime, including kidnapping. Journalists are particularly endangered due to strict regulations and risks of harassment or violence.

The Department of State has revised its Travel Advisory for South Sudan as of March 8, 2025, calling for the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. personnel from Juba. The advisory maintains a Level 4 classification – Do Not Travel – reflecting the severity of the security situation. This new advisory supersedes the previous one issued on July 31, 2023.

The Travel Advisory explicitly states that travel to South Sudan should be avoided due to significant risks from crime, kidnapping, and ongoing armed conflict. The situation remains precarious, prompting the evacuation of non-essential U.S. government employees due to the perilous conditions throughout the country.

Instances of armed conflict continue as political and ethnic groups engage in violent confrontations. The availability of weapons within the populace exacerbates the violence, with cattle raids contributing to the ongoing turmoil.

Violent crimes, including carjackings, shootings, and kidnappings, are prevalent across South Sudan, particularly in urban settings such as Juba. Foreign nationals have reported severe incidents, including rape and armed robbery, highlighting the extreme dangers present.

Furthermore, unapproved journalistic activities are deemed illegal in South Sudan, complicating efforts to report on the conflict. Journalists face severe risks, including harassment and fatal violence while attempting to cover happenings in the region.

In summary, the updated Travel Advisory for South Sudan underscores the dangerous environment characterized by crime and armed conflict. With a Level 4 classification, travelers are strongly discouraged from visiting due to the high likelihood of personal harm. The advisory highlights the comprehensive threats faced by both citizens and foreign nationals in the region, especially those involved in journalism.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com