South Sudan's Unstable Peace: A Closer Look
International Security Council Urges Instant Ceasefire in South Sudan Conflict - International Body Urges Instant Ceasefire in South Sudan Conflict
The UN Security Council has stepped in to prevent a potential return to full-scale conflict in South Sudan. After a series of recent fighting incidents that threatened the frail peace agreement in South Sudan, the Council called for an immediate ceasefire and prolonged the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for another year.
The Violence-Stricken Land
South Sudan has faced turbulent times since securing independence in 2011. The nation has struggled to maintain stability, with political conflicts often escalating into physical violence, especially between President Salva Kiir and Vice President Riek Machar's supporters, leading to a five-year civil war that took the lives of around 400,000 people[4].
Recently, the ongoing tension has intensified, with violent clashes breaking out in Nasir, Upper Nile state, and the government retaliating with airstrikes and opposition barracks assaults outside Juba. The White Army, an armed youth group, had previously captured the town[3]. The situation has been further aggravated by Machar's house arrest ordered by Kiir, which has triggered widespread condemnation and violent clashes[4].
The UN's Role in Ceasefire and Peacebuilding
In response to the deteriorating situation, the UN Security Council has urged dialogue and a ceasefire to prevent a full-scale war. The Council has expressed growing concerns over the escalating violence and emphasized the need for continued international aid to support peace efforts[3].
The extension of UNMISS's mandate reflects the international community's unwavering commitment to preventing a recurrence of civil war and promoting peace-building in South Sudan. Among its primary responsibilities is the protection of civilians under threat, particularly those in high-risk areas[5].
Under its mandate, UNMISS aims to support inclusive and accountable governance and facilitate free and fair elections, as outlined in the Revitalized Agreement[5]. The mission will undertake long-term peace-building initiatives to address critical gaps in local and national peace and support South Sudan's self-reliance[5].
The UN Security Council has requested the Secretary-General to report on any obstacles to implementing the mandate[5]. The resolution also maintained the cap of 17,000 UN troops and 2,100 police officers, while acknowledging the potential for "adjustments" to the troop strength in response to the evolving situation[1]. The resolution was adopted with 12 votes in favor, and three abstentions – from Russia, China, and Pakistan.
[1] - https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/un-extends-south-sudan-peacekeeping-mandate-by-one-year-2023-01-26/[2] - https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/26/south-sudan-ceasefire-called-for-after-New-Year-battles[3] - https://www.humanrightswatch.org/news/south-sudan/press-release/south-sudan-government-uses-incendiary-weapons-to-attack-civilians[4] - https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/1/17/south-sudan-vice-president-machar-to-remain-under-house-arrest[5] - https://undispatch.com/what-is-the-un-peacekeeping-mission-in-south-sudan/
- The UN Security Council has emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue to prevent a full-scale war in South Sudan, calling for an immediate ceasefire.
- The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has been extended for another year as part of the international community's efforts to cooperate in maintaining peace and preventing a recurrence of civil war.
- The UNMISS mission in South Sudan is primarily responsible for protecting civilians under threat, particularly those in high-risk areas and supporting peace efforts.
- The UN Security Council has requested the Secretary-General to report on any obstacles to implementing the mandate, and has acknowledged the potential for "adjustments" to the troop strength in response to the evolving situation.
