By Sabri Dibaco
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has called on all parties involved in the conflict in South Sudan to respect and protect civilians, humanitarian workers, and civilian infrastructure amid rising violence across the country.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, Daniel Bunnskog, ICRC head of delegation, said the worsening insecurity in recent months has led to loss of lives, displacement, and increased humanitarian suffering among communities already facing severe challenges.
The event was held under the global theme “United in Humanity.” Daniel said that the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement remains committed to supporting vulnerable people affected by conflict, disasters, and other emergencies.
“We are very saddened by the rising conflict in South Sudan over the last few months. It has caused loss of life and displacement and added to the humanitarian challenges facing the people of South Sudan,” Daniel Bunnskog said.
The ICRC also emphasised the importance of respecting international humanitarian law, stressing that civilians, humanitarian workers, and civilian facilities must never be targeted during armed conflict.
“It is a moment to remind all parties that civilians, civilian infrastructure, and humanitarian workers, including Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers, must be protected by those carrying weapons and conducting combat,” Daniel Bunnskog stated.
During the event, tribute was paid to Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff members who have lost their lives while carrying out humanitarian duties both globally and in South Sudan.
The speaker noted that some South Sudan Red Cross volunteers were killed last year while serving communities in difficult conditions.
The ICRC representative praised the dedication and sacrifice of volunteers who continue to provide humanitarian assistance despite limited resources and difficult working environments.
“We see their daily dedication. Many work with little or no compensation to deliver life-saving and life-sustaining services to communities,” the official said.
Speaking during the event, the Central Equatoria State Ministry of Health representative Joice Bakwal Angel praised the humanitarian role played by the Red Cross in South Sudan, describing the organisation as a beacon of hope during times of war, disasters, disease outbreaks, and humanitarian crises.
She said that the day honours the legacy of Henry Dunant, whose vision inspired a global humanitarian movement dedicated to alleviating suffering and protecting human dignity across the world.
“We celebrate not only the organisation, but also the spirit of humanity, compassion, and service that has been given to the people of South Sudan,” Joice Bakwal said.
Joice Bakwal also highlighted the strong partnership between the health sector and the Red Cross in strengthening healthcare services, disaster preparedness, and community resilience in Central Equatoria State.
“As the State Ministry of Health, we are deeply proud of the partnership between our health system and the Red Cross. Together, we build resilience, strengthen the health system, and provide support to those who need it most,” Joice Bakwal stated.
A representative of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Paula Fitzgerald, called for unity and stronger humanitarian support during celebrations marking World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2026 under the theme “United in Humanity.”
Paula Fitzgerald praised the role of volunteers and humanitarian workers across the world, describing the Red Cross as a grassroots movement deeply rooted in communities.
“Let us give a big round of applause for Madame Croft, the first female to have the podium this very morning,” the speaker began, before addressing Red Cross leadership, partners, supporters, and guests attending the celebration.
She emphasised that this year’s theme highlights the importance of community solidarity and humanitarian action beyond borders.
“This year’s theme is a reminder that at its essence, the Red Cross is a grassroots organisation, with volunteers mobilising in and for their communities, sustaining social fabric in challenging times,” the representative said.
The IFRC official noted that the global Red Cross network continues to support humanitarian operations in South Sudan through partnerships involving national societies from countries including Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The event ended with awards to the volunteers who have been committed to serving the people in South Sudan, even during the time of conflict.