(NEW YORK) – The United Kingdom has called on South Sudan’s leadership to take urgent action to end violence, restore dialogue and uphold the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement, warning that continued instability is worsening the country’s humanitarian crisis and undermining prospects for peace.
Speaking during a United Nations Security Council session, the UK representative expressed grave concern about ongoing violence across South Sudan, which has left communities devastated. The statement condemned repeated attacks, including aerial bombardments targeting civilians, humanitarian workers and medical facilities. London urged South Sudan’s leaders to act swiftly to halt hostilities and comply with international humanitarian and human rights law.
The UK also highlighted the political situation, noting that the house arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar undermines the spirit of the peace accord and blocks reconciliation efforts. Frequent reshuffles within the government were also cited as further destabilising factors, leaving state institutions weakened and unable to function effectively. Britain echoed calls by the African Union for the immediate release of all political detainees, including Machar, to create space for inclusive dialogue.
The humanitarian situation remains severe. According to the latest figures, more than 7.7 million people in South Sudan are experiencing acute food insecurity. A cholera outbreak has already claimed more than 1,400 lives, placing additional strain on health services. These challenges are being worsened by spillover effects from the conflict in Sudan and by the growing impacts of climate change, which continues to disrupt livelihoods and threaten stability.
The UK acknowledged the role of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in addressing climate related security risks, enabling the delivery of humanitarian assistance, and protecting civilians. London urged the South Sudanese authorities to ensure full and unhindered humanitarian access to civilians in need, regardless of their political or ethnic background.
Britain also called for stronger national measures to address climate change, describing it as a key driver of fragility and instability in South Sudan. The statement underlined that building resilience to climate shocks will be essential for securing long-term peace and stability.
The UK concluded that without decisive political will and genuine commitment from South Sudan’s leadership, the prospects for peace and recovery will remain uncertain, leaving millions of citizens at risk.
Britain Calls on South Sudan to Uphold 2018 Peace Deal
| Concern | Key Points | Implications for South Sudan |
|---|---|---|
| Violence | Ongoing military offensives, intercommunal clashes, aerial attacks on civilians, aid workers and medical facilities | Undermines security, threatens lives, and destabilises communities |
| Political Crisis | House arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, frequent government reshuffles, weakened institutions | Blocks reconciliation, undermines the 2018 Peace Agreement, prevents inclusive dialogue |
| Humanitarian Crisis | Over 7.7 million people facing acute food insecurity, cholera outbreak claiming 1,400+ lives, spillover from Sudan, climate shocks | Increases vulnerability, disrupts livelihoods, heightens risk of famine and disease outbreaks |
| International & Regional Response | UK urges full support for UNMISS, adherence to international humanitarian law, release of political detainees | Critical for credible elections, peace-building, and protection of civilians |
| Climate and Resilience | UK highlights climate change as a driver of fragility | Encourages national measures to build resilience and ensure long-term stability |
