UN Experts Warn Escalating Fighting In South Sudan Raises Risk Of Mass Violence
Politics Updated: 25 January 2026 18:50 EAT
President Salva Kiir has urged citizens to work on achieving national peace and cohesion
United Nations human rights experts have raised alarm over a sharp escalation in fighting across South Sudan, warning that the renewed hostilities are significantly increasing the risk of mass violence against civilians. The experts say the situation is particularly volatile in Jonglei state, where clashes have intensified in recent weeks.
In a statement, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan said it was gravely concerned by reports of active confrontations between rival forces, coupled with inflammatory rhetoric from military commanders. According to the commission, such developments create conditions that could quickly spiral into widespread atrocities.
Jonglei state has emerged as a major flashpoint, with fighting reported in several counties. Civilians have borne the brunt of the violence, forcing thousands to flee their homes in search of safety amid fears of further attacks.
UN officials say many displaced families have sought refuge in remote areas, including swamps and forests, where access to food, clean water, and medical care is extremely limited. Humanitarian agencies warn that these movements are worsening an already fragile humanitarian situation.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan has condemned statements allegedly made by some commanders that encourage attacks on civilians. UNMISS described such incitement as dangerous and unlawful, stressing that civilians must never be targeted under any circumstances.
According to UN estimates, more than 180,000 people have been displaced by the recent violence, with Jonglei accounting for a significant share of the new displacement. The figures are expected to rise if fighting continues unabated.
The latest escalation comes against the backdrop of growing political instability, as the country’s fragile peace process shows signs of strain. Tensions within the unity government and unresolved security arrangements have contributed to renewed mistrust among rival factions.
Observers note that the 2018 peace agreement, which ended years of civil war, has faced repeated setbacks, including delays in reforms and disputes over power sharing. These unresolved issues continue to fuel insecurity at both national and local levels.
In Jonglei, long-standing inter-communal rivalries over land, cattle, and local authority have further complicated the situation. The UN warns that political and military actors are exploiting these tensions, increasing the likelihood of large-scale violence.
Human rights monitors have also expressed concern over reports of abuses linked to the fighting, including attacks on villages, destruction of property, and violations against vulnerable groups such as women and children.
Humanitarian organizations say access to affected areas remains difficult due to insecurity, hampering efforts to deliver aid and assess the full scale of civilian suffering. They warn that prolonged fighting could trigger a deeper humanitarian crisis.
The UN has called on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, refrain from hate speech and incitement, and recommit to the peace process. Experts stress that urgent action is needed to protect civilians and prevent South Sudan from sliding back into widespread mass violence.
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FELIX MAKONA
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