The looming threat of civil war in South Sudan is exacerbated by the conflict in neighboring Sudan. The residents of Juba recall the violence from previous civil wars, with catastrophic outcomes. Urgent efforts are needed to prevent further instability and protect the population from resurgence of violence.
The potential resurgence of civil war in South Sudan poses significant risks, particularly as it may coincide with the ongoing unrest in neighboring Sudan. Residents of Juba, South Sudan’s capital, are all too familiar with violence, witnessed during the 2013 civil war just two years after the nation gained independence from Sudan. This period was marked by horrific ethnic massacres and extensive looting.
Following a failed ceasefire in 2016, Juba devolved into a battleground for several days, resulting in catastrophic casualties and social instability. By the conclusion of the conflict in 2018, over 400,000 lives had been lost, highlighting the urgent need for sustained peace and reconciliation efforts in the region. The haunting memories of violence linger, fostering a pervasive fear of additional turmoil among the populace.
This article originally appeared in the Middle East & Africa section and discusses the precarious situation in South Sudan, bearing significant implications for the broader region as tensions mount amid ongoing conflicts. It encapsulates the dire need for international attention and action to avert the looming threat of further division and chaos.
In summary, South Sudan is on the brink of another civil war, compounded by instability in neighboring Sudan. The historical context of violence in Juba and the alarming casualties from previous conflicts serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the nation. Comprehensive international support and local reconciliation strategies are essential to prevent further escalation and suffering among the South Sudanese people.
Original Source: www.economist.com
