UN Experts Urge Immediate Action to Protect Civilians in South Sudan Amid Escalating Crisis
UN experts warn of a worsening humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, calling for immediate measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid.
UN experts have raised alarms over the escalating humanitarian crisis in South Sudan, urging immediate actions to safeguard civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons. They emphasized the critical need for all parties to cease hostilities and engage in meaningful dialogue to prevent further conflict and protect civilians.
In Jonglei state alone, over 267,000 individuals have been displaced in 2026, with women and children under 18 constituting the majority. The experts expressed concern over evacuation orders in densely populated areas, warning that such measures could lead to further displacement and expose civilians to severe harm.
The situation is marked by severe violence, including conflict-related sexual violence against women and girls, massive civilian displacement across multiple states, and a deteriorating human rights environment. Indiscriminate attacks on civilians and aid workers have been reported, exacerbating the crisis.
Displaced populations are facing acute food insecurity, lack of shelter, and limited access to essential services. Conflict and climate shocks have disrupted education, affecting over 300 schools and approximately 300,000 learners. The destruction of water sources, along with the looting and burning of homes, hospitals, schools, and places of worship, are particularly alarming. If verified, these actions would constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes.
The experts called on the international community to take swift action, emphasizing that without immediate and sustained support, millions risk being left without the assistance they need for survival. They highlighted that obstructions to humanitarian assistance, administrative and bureaucratic restrictions, and attacks on aid workers are critically undermining the delivery of life-saving support.
The principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution must be strictly respected, ensuring that civilians and civilian objects are never targeted. Measures must be taken to protect the population, and the safety of humanitarian personnel must be guaranteed at all times. Ending impunity is essential to stop the cycle of violence in South Sudan and ensure justice for victims.
The experts are in communication with the Government of South Sudan regarding these matters.
