By Alan Clement
South Sudan has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles and multilateral cooperation during the 151st Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly held in Geneva.
The 151st IPU assembly was held under the theme “Upholding Humanitarian Norms and Supporting Humanitarian Action in Times of Crisis.”
According to a statement from the Speaker’s office, the Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), Dr. Jemma Nunu Kumba underscored South Sudan’s resolve to protect human dignity and uphold the values of peace and solidarity even amid internal challenges in her address.
“South Sudan remains firmly committed to multilateralism and to protecting human dignity; values that lie at the heart of our nation’s journey toward peace and stability,” the Speaker said, according to a statement from her office.
In a statement, she noted that under the leadership of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, South Sudan continues to shoulder a significant humanitarian responsibility, hosting over 650,000 refugees most of whom have fled conflicts in neighboring countries.
“Despite our internal challenges, we have remained steadfast in upholding humanitarian principles, ensuring protection for those seeking refuge, and facilitating humanitarian access across our borders,” the Speaker added.
According to the Speaker’s Office, South Sudan’s Parliament is translating these commitments into practical action through various legislative initiatives including the Parliamentary Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition, the Parliamentary Caucus on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).
She also cited the Young Parliamentarians Caucus as another such initiatives all aimed at strengthening parliamentary oversight and embedding humanitarian values in national policies.
“These efforts strengthen our oversight role and ensure that the values of peace, inclusion, and humanitarian solidarity are reflected in our national policies,” the statement read.
The Speaker emphasized that South Sudan’s participation in the global parliamentary assembly reflects the country’s broader belief that the protection of human life and dignity should form the cornerstone of governance not only during times of crisis, but as a foundation for lasting peace.
“For South Sudan, our participation reaffirms our belief that the protection of human life and dignity must remain at the heart of governance not only in times of crisis, but as a foundation for lasting peace,” the statement stressed.
The 151st IPU Assembly brought together parliamentarians from over 170 countries to discuss global humanitarian challenges, legislative responses, and the role of parliaments in safeguarding vulnerable populations.