South Sudan’s government must strengthen its efforts to end attacks against peacekeepers and humanitarian workers operating across the country.
These individuals and organisations play a critical role in protecting civilians, delivering lifesaving assistance, and supporting the implementation of peace agreements.
Attacking them not only threatens their lives but also undermines peace, stability, and development.
Humanitarian workers often operate in difficult and dangerous environments to provide food, medicine, shelter, and other essential services to vulnerable communities.
Peacekeepers, meanwhile, help create conditions in which civilians can feel safer and humanitarian operations can continue. Any attack against them is therefore an attack on the broader effort to protect and assist South Sudanese citizens.
The government has a responsibility to ensure that security forces protect humanitarian personnel and peacekeepers and that those responsible for attacks are investigated and brought to justice.
Impunity only encourages further violence and weakens public confidence in national institutions.
Authorities should also strengthen cooperation with humanitarian organisations, peacekeeping missions, and local communities to identify security threats before they escalate.
Clear accountability mechanisms, stronger law enforcement, and regular engagement with communities can help prevent attacks and improve the safety of aid operations.
South Sudan cannot achieve lasting peace while those working to support peace and save lives remain under threat.
The government should demonstrate stronger political will by condemning attacks, enforcing the law, and ensuring meaningful accountability for perpetrators.
Protecting peacekeepers and humanitarian workers is not merely an international obligation; it is a national responsibility.
By taking decisive action, South Sudan can strengthen public trust, safeguard vulnerable communities, and demonstrate its commitment to building a peaceful and stable country.