The U.S. Department of State has updated its Travel Advisory for South Sudan to Level 4 – Do Not Travel, citing ordered departure of non-emergency personnel from Juba. Concerns include ongoing armed conflict, rampant crime, and risks faced by journalists. The advisory reflects a continued threat to safety in the region.
The Department of State has revised its Travel Advisory for South Sudan on March 8, 2025, indicating an Ordered Departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel from Juba. The advisory maintains a Level 4 rating, indicating that U.S. citizens should not travel to South Sudan. This update supersedes the previous advisory issued on July 31, 2023.
The advisory notes critical security concerns, including rampant crime, kidnappings, and persistent armed conflict within the country. The risks prompted the Department of State to initiate the departure of non-emergency staff, highlighting the dangerous environment in South Sudan. Fighting persists among various political and ethnic factions, with weapons readily accessible to the public.
Violent crimes such as carjackings, shootings, assaults, and kidnappings are prevalent across the nation, including in the capital, Juba. Foreign nationals have tragically fallen victim to severe crimes, including rapes and armed robberies. The situation poses significant threats to personal safety.
Furthermore, individuals engaging in journalism in South Sudan must possess appropriate credentials from the South Sudanese Media Authority, as failure to do so could result in legal repercussions. The risk of harassment and violence against journalists is alarming, with many facing life-threatening situations while covering events related to the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, the updated Travel Advisory for South Sudan underscores the extreme risks associated with travel to the region. The ongoing armed conflict, high rates of violent crime, and the challenges faced by journalists illustrate a volatile and hazardous environment. U.S. citizens are strongly advised against travel to South Sudan until the security situation improves and conditions become safer for civilian presence.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
