Subnational violence remains a significant concern affecting civilians across South Sudan

JUBA – Subnational violence remains a significant concern affecting civilians across South Sudan, as documented by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in its latest quarterly brief.Between April and June 2024, UNMISS recorded 317 incidents affecting at least 1,062 civilians, (including 160 women and 188 children), of which 442 were killed, 297 injured, 197 abducted, and 126 were subjected to sexual violence. This represents a steep increase of 43 percent in the number of violent incidents (from 222 to 317), as well as a 22 percent rise in the number of victims (from 871 to 1,062) compared to the same period in 2023. These numbers also indicate a 32 percent uptick in violent incidents (from 240 to 317) and a 16 percent increase in the number of victims (from 913 to 1,062) in comparison to the previous quarter (January – March 2024). Of particular concern is the upsurge in documented abductions and sexual violence compared to the previous quarter this year. The number of abductions increased by an alarming 181 percent (from 70 to 197), while a 168 percent rise in the number of victims of sexual violence was recorded (from 47 to 126). The majority of abductions were documented in parts of Juba, Morobo, and Yei counties in Central Equatoria State. Tambura county in Western Equatoria State recorded the highest incidents of conflict-related sexual violence. Women and girls continued to be disproportionately affected by conflict-related sexual violence, accounting for 99 percent of documented victims.Inter/intra-communal violence by community-based militias and/or civil defense groups linked to border disputes, cross-border violence, cyclical and retaliatory attacks, as well as ethnic polarization remained the primary source of subnational violence, accounting for 83 percent of victims (883 individuals) documented across the country. However, nationwide trends of violence involving conventional parties to the conflict remained low during the reporting period. Overall, while Western Equatoria State recorded the highest number of incidents, Warrap State remained the most affected area, accounting for 32 percent of the total number of civilian victims.“The considerable increase in violent incidents, especially abductions and attacks against women, is alarming and must stop,” said Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of UNMISS.“Respect for human rights is the foundation upon which lasting peace and stability are built. Given the recent extension of the transitional period, it is vital that national, state and local authorities as well as communities and their leaders redouble their efforts to resolve longstanding conflict drivers through dialogue.”UNMISS urges the Government of South Sudan to protect civilians by preventing repeated cycles of violence, investigating violations and abuses of human rights as well as international humanitarian law, and holding perpetrators accountable in accordance with applicable laws. The Mission continues to protect civilians across the country, bring communities together to reconcile differences, and actively support political and peace processes.