Story perspectives

UN Urges South Sudan to Halt Violence, Embrace Dialogue

1/30/2026

Center

Guterres Urges Dialogue

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the South Sudan government and opposition forces to cease military operations and engage in inclusive dialogue.
Mohan Subramanian, the UNMISS Force Commander, said the mission has saved about 162,000 lives over three and a half years, mostly from climate-related disasters.
He warned the peace agreement is under threat and that misinformation undermines peace efforts and UN credibility in South Sudan.

Left

Sooka Warns Atrocities

Yasmin Sooka, Chairperson of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, warned that military leaders' highly inflammatory rhetoric, including a command to leave no survivors, could lead to mass atrocities and breach International Humanitarian Law.
The conflict is fueled by political disputes between President Salva Kiir and arrested Vice President Riek Machar, and has caused significant civilian harm.
Over 180,000 people have been displaced due to escalating violence, particularly in Jonglei state, where humanitarian aid is severely lacking.

History

Historical Context

The South Sudan Civil War began in December 2013 after President Salva Kiir accused Vice President Riek Machar of a coup attempt, leading to violent clashes between their factions. By 2021, over 4 million people were displaced, with ongoing ethnic violence complicating peace efforts. Current calls for dialogue reflect a long history of political instability and humanitarian crises in the region.

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Guterres Urges Dialogue

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the South Sudan government and opposition forces to cease military operations and engage in inclusive dialogue.
Mohan Subramanian, the UNMISS Force Commander, said the mission has saved about 162,000 lives over three and a half years, mostly from climate-related disasters.
He warned the peace agreement is under threat and that misinformation undermines peace efforts and UN credibility in South Sudan.

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