Clock Ticking on South Sudan’s Transition, Security Council Hears
2025-02-05 12:00
The United Nations Security Council convened a meeting on 2025-02-05 to discuss the progress and challenges in South Sudan’s ongoing political transition. The meeting was held in light of the approaching deadline for the establishment of a unified, national army, as stipulated in the 2018 peace agreement.
Progress and Challenges
Permanent Representative of South Sudan to the UN, Ambassador Akuei Bona Malwal, briefed the Council on the progress made in the implementation of the peace agreement. He highlighted the establishment of a Transitional Government of National Unity (TGoNU) in 2020, the formation of a Joint Transitional Security Mechanism, and the ongoing process of security sector reforms.
However, Ambassador Malwal acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in the area of security. He cited continued intercommunal violence, attacks on civilians, and delays in the integration of armed forces into the national army.
Security Concerns
Members of the Security Council expressed concern over the security situation in South Sudan and urged all parties to implement the peace agreement fully and in good faith. They emphasized the importance of establishing a unified army as a crucial step towards lasting peace.
Norwegian Ambassador Mona Juul, speaking on behalf of the Group of Western States, called for accelerated progress in security sector reforms. She stressed the need for effective command and control of security forces, as well as accountability for human rights violations.
Chinese Ambassador Zhang Jun echoed these concerns, calling for an inclusive political process and responsible behavior from all stakeholders. He emphasized that the Security Council should continue to support South Sudan’s transition and provide technical assistance.
Timeframe for Transition
South Sudan’s Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs, Angelina Teny, addressed the Council, highlighting the importance of adhering to the peace agreement’s timeframe. She stated that the unification of armed forces must be completed by February 2025, as per the agreed deadline.
Call for Support
Ambassador Malwal appealed to the international community for continued support in South Sudan’s transition. He requested technical assistance in security sector reforms, infrastructure development, and economic recovery.
Conclusion
The Security Council meeting emphasized the urgency of implementing the peace agreement fully, particularly in the area of security. Members of the Council called on all parties to prioritize the establishment of a unified army, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and continue the inclusive political process.
The meeting concluded with the Security Council extending its mandate for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for an additional year, until 2026, to continue supporting the transition.
Clock ticking on South Sudan’s transition, Security Council hears
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Peace and Security a new article on 2025-02-05 12:00 titled “Clock ticking on South Sudan’s transition, Security Council hears”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
9