UN Report Highlights Ongoing Human Rights Violations in South Sudan

The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has reported widespread human rights violations driven by political leaders’ corruption and impunity. The report details continuous violence, systemic sexual violence, and the imposition of extrajudicial laws that perpetuate instability. Urgent reforms are essential to address the neglect of key institutions and uphold human rights, as the country grapples with a challenging political climate.

The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has issued a report urging the country’s political leaders to confront the rampant corruption and impunity that contribute to significant human rights violations. Presented to the UN Human Rights Council, the report illustrates the persistent violence and oppression by political elites against civilians, especially notable in areas like Tambura, where ethnic violence has traumatized communities. Political and military leaders are reportedly continuing to engage in acts that undermine peace and accountability, including extrajudicial killings and the abduction of children into armed conflict.

The report highlights systematic sexual violence and a failure to provide necessary healthcare to victims, indicating a serious neglect of human rights protections. Furthermore, the ongoing cycle of impunity and a lack of accountability are depicted as barriers to genuine political progress and the establishment of functional institutions, which are vital under the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Recommendations emphasized the necessity for building credible governance systems alongside adhering to human rights standards.

The recent two-year extension of the transitional political arrangements has raised concerns that it may serve as a pretext for delaying substantive reforms. The report notes a significant revenue increase from oil between September 2022 and August 2024, yet critical public services remain unfunded, with institutions such as courts and schools in disrepair.

The introduction of the controversial “Green Book” law in Warrap is also examined, which potentially authorizes extrajudicial killings for certain offenses, fostering a culture of lawlessness. The Commission warns that the selective enforcement of this law escalates community tensions and undermines judicial processes, further impeding the prospect of achieving justice for victims.

The Commissioners’ recent meeting with survivors underscores the ongoing repression and lack of political will to address these violations. The report’s findings call for urgent actions to address institutional neglect and to rebuild essential services in South Sudan, essential for both justice and peace.

The UN Human Rights Commission’s report on South Sudan outlines grave human rights violations perpetuated by political elites. It criticizes the failures of governance and calls for addressing systemic corruption and impunity to foster peace. By focusing on building accountable institutions and enforcing human rights, the report stresses that meaningful progress can be made towards a stable and just society.

Original Source: reliefweb.int

About Carmen Mendez

Carmen Mendez is an engaging editor and political journalist with extensive experience. After completing her degree in journalism at Yale University, she worked her way up through the ranks at various major news organizations, holding positions from staff writer to editor. Carmen is skilled at uncovering the nuances of complex political scenarios and is an advocate for transparent journalism.

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