Human Rights Watch emphasized the urgent need for international oversight during a UN Human Rights Council dialogue on South Sudan’s ongoing human rights crisis. The country is experiencing heightened violence and civic repression, worsening impunity and obstructing transitional justice efforts. The organization called for the UN Council to extend the Commission’s mandate to bolster accountability and protect civilians.
On February 28, 2025, during an interactive dialogue at the UN Human Rights Council, Human Rights Watch addressed the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, underscoring the grim situation in the country. South Sudan is entering another challenging transitional phase marked by violence among government forces, opposition groups, and militias, leading to civilian displacement and human rights violations. The government bears the responsibility to enhance protection for the civilian population.
Although the Parliament has enacted essential transitional justice legislation, the sluggish progress in establishing the Hybrid Court, as outlined in the Revitalized Peace Agreement with the African Union, hampers accountability and jeopardizes the broader pursuit of sustainable peace. Furthermore, civic freedoms are increasingly at risk; the National Security Service operates without judicial oversight, abusing its authority under the 2024 Act to infringe upon fundamental rights. The arbitrary detention of Emmanuel Monychol, Chief Editor of the Dawn newspaper, exemplifies these concerning trends.
The Commission’s findings reveal that the slow execution of South Sudan’s fragile peace agreement fosters a prevailing atmosphere of impunity, exacerbating human rights violations. Therefore, robust international intervention focused on prioritizing human rights and accountability is imperative at this juncture. The Council must persist in rendering oversight on the situation and actively enhance accountability initiatives by extending the Commission’s mandate for another vital two years.
In summary, South Sudan finds itself at a critical juncture requiring urgent international attention to counteract human rights abuses stemming from ongoing strife. The lack of progress on transitional justice mechanisms, along with heightened repression by National Security Services, calls for continued scrutiny from the UN Human Rights Council. Proactive measures to extend the Commission’s mandate are necessary to foster accountability and pave the way toward lasting peace and justice.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
