The UN has highlighted the urgency for South Sudan to fulfill commitments outlined in the 2018 peace agreement as it enters an extended transitional period. Despite some progress, significant gaps remain in the lead-up to elections scheduled for December 2026. Ongoing communal violence, humanitarian challenges, and logistical constraints further complicate the situation. The UN continues to advocate for support and funding to assist those in dire need as the nation seeks stability and democratic governance.
As South Sudan embarks on an “extended transitional period,” the top UN envoy has underscored the urgency of fulfilling the commitments set forth in the 2018 peace agreement, with a new deadline looming in February 2027. Initially designed to conclude years of conflict, the Revitalized Peace Agreement mandated a three-year timeline for elections and democratic governance. However, multiple extensions have highlighted the unaddressed political, security, and governance challenges still present in the nation.
During a recent briefing to the UN Security Council, Special Representative for South Sudan, Nicolas Haysom, noted the citizens’ expectation for progress. He stated, “There is a strong desire for the leaders to focus on the benchmarks set out in the peace agreement – without further delay.” Key issues, including security sector reform and electoral preparations, require immediate attention from the country’s leadership.
Significant obstacles persist regarding the upcoming elections scheduled for December 2026. Despite some progress, such as the establishment of a framework for security management, vital conditions such as the deployment of unified security forces, voter education, and a procedural code among political entities remain unmet. Mr. Haysom remarked, “We have not yet seen the previously promised harmonized workplan with an operational timetable for elections,” signaling potential funding issues and governmental delays as major impediments.
Communal violence continues to threaten national stability, affecting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Armed conflicts in Western Equatoria and illegal checkpoints reflect heightened security challenges. Additionally, ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan contributes to unrest, as recent reports indicate violent retaliations against South Sudanese residents in Sudan’s Wad Madani region.
Humanitarian needs are soaring, with over one million Sudanese refugees now residing in South Sudan, compounding the plight of 9.3 million individuals requiring assistance. The economic situation exacerbates the crisis, with inflation reaching 107 percent and food prices doubling. Compounding these hardships, South Sudanese government workers have not received salaries for over ten months, and a worsening cholera outbreak has already seen 23,000 cases reported.
The 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan aims to assist 5.4 million individuals, but urgent funding challenges hinder these efforts. Accordingly, the UN calls for $1.7 billion to address critical humanitarian needs effectively. Mr. Haysom, also leading the UN peacekeeping mission (UNMISS), highlighted operational hurdles after the government requested the mission to vacate portions of its headquarters in a tight timeframe, creating logistical strains.
In his conclusion, Mr. Haysom reiterated the UN’s steadfast commitment to supporting South Sudan in its journey towards stabilization and democratic governance despite the challenges faced and emphasized ongoing dedication to the country’s citizens.
South Sudan has experienced prolonged turmoil since its independence, with key peace agreements established to restore stability and governance. The Revitalized Peace Agreement of 2018 was an essential framework aimed at resolving the nation’s extensive conflict and establishing democratic structures. Over the years, successive extensions of the transitional period have reflected the persistent challenges and unmet commitments concerning elections and governance. The Security Council’s engagement is crucial in addressing these issues and monitoring the situation as it evolves.
In summary, as the extended transitional period in South Sudan unfolds, urgent action is needed by leaders to meet the benchmarks outlined in the 2018 peace agreement. While challenges such as communal violence, humanitarian crises, and operational constraints impede progress, the commitment from the UN and other stakeholders remains pivotal in supporting the country’s path towards democratization and stability. Urgent funding and strategic reforms are crucial to addressing the pressing needs of the South Sudanese population.
Original Source: news.un.org
