(NEW YORK) – The United Kingdom has voiced deep concern over the worsening political and humanitarian conditions in South Sudan, calling on the transitional government in Juba to recommit to inclusive dialogue and uphold its obligations under the Revitalised Peace Agreement.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council in New York on Tuesday, UK Minister Counsellor Jennifer MacNaughtan said recent political developments, including exclusionary reshuffles and the sidelining of opposition figures, have undermined the peace process.
She stressed that the detention and trial of First Vice President Riek Machar posed a serious threat to the country’s fragile political stability. “The United Kingdom remains concerned by the deterioration in the political situation in South Sudan,” MacNaughtan said. “Violations of the Revitalised Agreement and the systematic exclusion of political voices must stop.”
The UK diplomat urged South Sudan’s leadership to restore civic space, accelerate election preparations, and ensure that all political stakeholders can participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
MacNaughtan also expressed alarm over the volatile security environment, noting that ongoing clashes between the main signatories to the peace deal continue to endanger civilians and obstruct humanitarian aid.
Flooding since late May has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, worsening food insecurity across several regions. Over 7.5 million people in South Sudan are currently facing hunger, according to UN estimates, while cholera outbreaks and an influx of refugees and returnees from Sudan have further strained already limited resources.
She urged the transitional government to lift bureaucratic restrictions hindering humanitarian access and to ensure the safety of aid workers. “We call on all parties to return immediately to the nationwide ceasefire,” she said, adding that humanitarian operations must be allowed to reach affected communities without interference.
MacNaughtan reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), describing its role as “vital” in protecting civilians, supporting reconciliation, and promoting human rights. However, she said it was “deeply regrettable” that UNMISS continues to face obstacles in carrying out its mandate due to repeated violations of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA).
“The Government of South Sudan must cooperate fully and allow unrestricted access and operational freedom to UNMISS,” she said.
The United Kingdom, one of South Sudan’s key development partners, funds humanitarian and peacebuilding initiatives in the country. However, British officials have repeatedly warned that continued instability and human rights violations could affect future international support.
| Key Concern | Description | UK Position | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Deterioration | Exclusion of opposition and detention of Vice President Machar | Undermines peace process | Recommit to inclusive dialogue |
| Security Situation | Clashes between main peace parties and communal violence | Threatens civilians and aid delivery | Immediate return to ceasefire |
| Humanitarian Crisis | Flooding, food shortages, cholera, refugee influx | Worsening humanitarian conditions | Remove barriers to aid access |
| UNMISS Operations | Obstruction of UN mission activities | Violations of SOFA agreement | Full government cooperation |
Local analysts say the UK’s statement reflects frustration within the international community over slow progress towards democratic elections and ongoing violence despite multiple peace commitments.
The remarks come as South Sudan continues to face significant economic challenges, compounded by high inflation, declining oil revenues, and limited private sector activity.