The U.S. Department of State updated the Travel Advisory for South Sudan on March 8, 2025, maintaining a Level 4 – Do Not Travel designation due to security threats. An Ordered Departure for non-emergency U.S. personnel has been issued, reflecting ongoing armed conflict and rampant crime in the country. Foreign nationals are particularly vulnerable to violent crime and dangers related to journalistic work in South Sudan.
The U.S. Department of State revised its Travel Advisory for South Sudan on March 8, 2025, highlighting an Ordered Departure for non-emergency U.S. government personnel from Juba. The advisory remains classified at Level 4, which signifies a strict prohibition on travel due to security issues prevailing in the country. This new advisory supersedes the one issued on July 31, 2023.
Travel to South Sudan is highly discouraged owing to significant risks involving crime, kidnapping, and ongoing armed conflict. The advisory specifies numerous threats, prompting the ordered departure of non-emergency government employees. The country is presently embroiled in armed conflict, with significant fighting among various political and ethnic factions.
In South Sudan, the widespread availability of weapons increases the risks associated with cattle raids, leading to further violence. Residents and expatriates alike face numerous violent crimes, including carjackings, shootings, ambushes, assaults, robberies, and kidnappings, particularly in urban areas like Juba. Foreigners have reportedly experienced severe criminal offenses, including sexual assault and armed robbery.
Journalistic activities in South Sudan are fraught with danger; reporting without the requisite permissions from the South Sudanese Media Authority is illegal. Journalists working in this environment often face harassment and, tragically, many have lost their lives while covering ongoing conflicts, underscoring the perilous conditions for both local and international media personnel.
The updated Travel Advisory underscores the severe risks associated with travel to South Sudan, where crime and armed conflict remain rampant. The U.S. government has ordered non-emergency personnel to depart, reflecting the escalating dangers, particularly for foreign nationals. It is imperative to heed these warnings and remain informed regarding the precarious security situation in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
