Violence in South Sudan’s Nasir County is escalating, displacing thousands and injuring many, including peacekeepers. The ongoing conflict between the SSPDF and local armed youth showcases the dire need for security reforms as outlined in the 2018 peace agreement. Recent troop deployments and airstrikes have further heightened tensions, necessitating urgent action to protect civilians and address abuses.
A significant increase in violence in Nasir County, Upper Nile State, South Sudan, poses severe risks to local communities and threatens to deepen the ongoing crisis in the region. Since early 2024, clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and local armed youth have escalated, culminating in an attack on civilians at a marketplace on February 14, 2025. This incident resulted in numerous displacements and injuries, including that of a peacekeeper, amidst ongoing conflict with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLA/IO).
The ongoing violence highlights the critical need for addressing historical abuses and fulfilling key security provisions from South Sudan’s 2018 revitalized peace agreement, such as security sector reforms and the consolidation of multiple armed factions. However, political disputes and the lack of implementation have left the nation precarious and exacerbated clashes between government forces and local groups throughout the country.
Communities in Nasir have voiced their demand for a unified military force instead of the current national defense troops, which are perceived as complicit in civilian abuses. Notably, since February 22, 2025, new deployments of allied ethnic militias, not part of the formal unification process, have occurred, prompting fear among local youth of forced disarmament and potential violence.
In response to youth mobilization, SSPDF has denied intentions of disarmament while blaming SPLA/IO for inciting violence. On February 25, the SSPDF conducted airstrikes against SPLA/IO positions, also impacting civilian areas and escalating conflict risks. Under international humanitarian law, such indiscriminate attacks on non-combatants can lead to war crime charges.
To enhance civilian protection and rebuild community trust, authorities must prioritize incorporating local perspectives into security strategies while ensuring accountability for abuses. The international community has a vital role in supporting accountability and humanitarian efforts. Without decisive action, civilians are likely to face continuous hardship and danger.
The situation in Nasir County underscores the urgent need for reform and accountability in South Sudan. Unresolved political tensions and ongoing violence threaten the safety of civilians, who disproportionately suffer from these conflicts. Concerted efforts from both national authorities and the international community are essential to restore peace and security in the region.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
