A United Nations investigative body has raised alarm over the imminent risk of a return to full-scale war in South Sudan. The Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan (CHRSS) has made clear that the nation, which is the youngest in the world, must urgently tackle deep-seated impunity and rampant human rights violations to avert escalating violence. The findings, released during a session of the Human Rights Council, disclose a disturbing reality for civilians, who are experiencing killings, systemic sexual violence, and forced displacement, contributing to an intensifying humanitarian crisis.

Escalating Atrocities and Political Instability

The report emphasizes that rising risks of atrocities alongside the crumbling of political safeguards highlight the necessity for immediate preventive measures. The CHRSS has urged both international and regional stakeholders to implement diplomatic pressures and sanctions, insisting on strict enforcement of the UN arms embargo. The commission has also underscored the importance of preventing institutional collapse and safeguarding the fragile political transition in the country, which requires a coordinated global response to halt further mass atrocities.

Political Turmoil Ignited by Leadership Conflicts

Investigators attribute the growing instability in South Sudan to the actions of political and military elites who have compromised existing power-sharing agreements. The arrest and prosecution of First Vice President Riek Machar on charges of murder and treason have been particularly damaging, undermining key provisions of the 2018 peace deal. Following clashes in Nasir, Machar, who belongs to the Nuer ethnic group, was suspended, causing a resurgence of political unrest and armed engagements not seen for a decade.

Military Tactics and Humanitarian Consequences

The crisis has its roots in a civil war that began in 2013, triggered by President Salva Kiir’s allegations of a coup attempt by Machar. The recent investigation highlights a worrying shift in military tactics that include the bombing of civilian areas. The involvement of Ugandan forces has reportedly bolstered the government’s military capacity, raising serious concerns about breaches of the UN arms embargo, especially since joint airstrikes have primarily impacted Nuer communities.

Sexual Violence as a Strategy of Conflict

Sexual violence continues to be a significant and ongoing aspect of the conflict. The commission’s findings indicate that rape has been employed as a strategic tool to disrupt social cohesion and instill fear among affected populations. Despite the 2018 peace agreement, which previously curtailed a conflict that resulted in approximately 400,000 deaths, the recent capture of government positions in Jonglei state by opposition forces has revived fears of an imminent collapse.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amid Ongoing Violence

The humanitarian impact has been devastating, with reports indicating that approximately 280,000 individuals have been displaced since December. UNICEF has warned that over 450,000 children are at risk of acute malnutrition. Currently, nearly 10 million people require life-saving assistance, yet humanitarian initiatives are being obstructed by violence and intentional hindrance of aid delivery. The CHRSS has indicated that civilians are bearing the brunt of a crisis, with displacement having surged by nearly 40 percent during this turbulent period.

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