The recent incident in Ayod County, Jonglei State alongside a disturbing pattern of threats against humanitarian agencies has left the public in a state of deep concern. These agencies exist for a singular, vital purpose: to alleviate the suffering of South Sudanese citizens caught in the crossfire of conflict and natural disasters.
In many ways, the presence of aid groups benefits all sides. By providing food, medicine, and clean water, they stabilize communities that the warring parties themselves cannot support. Yet, despite this, humanitarian workers are frequently obstructed, harassed, and even killed. This is not just a tragedy; it is a strategic failure that frustrates the very organizations keeping the population alive, forcing them to close offices in areas that need them most.
The Accountability Gap Despite repeated calls for justice from civil society, the international community, and faith leaders, we see a recurring “blame game.” Instead of investigating attacks on aid workers and bringing culprits to book, the government and armed opposition forces often point fingers at one another. This lack of accountability only emboldens those who commit these crimes.
A Violation of Global Standards While conflict exists globally, the situation in South Sudan feels uniquely dire. International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is clear: humanitarian agencies and civilians must be protected. The parties to this conflict must recognize that:
Aid is Neutral: Agencies do not take sides; they support the suffering, not the soldiers.
Obstruction is a Death Sentence: In hard-to-reach areas, blocking an aid convoy is the same as denying a person their right to life.
If humanitarian agencies are finally driven out by fear and frustration, the question remains: what will become of the people? The parties to the conflict must distance themselves from aid interference. Any harm directed at a humanitarian worker is a direct blow to the millions of South Sudanese who depend on them for survival.
God Protect South
Be the spectator!