UK Deeply Concerned Over Human Rights Situation in South Sudan: Statement at UN Human Rights Council
London, 2025-02-28 (12:55 GMT) – The UK has expressed its deep concern regarding the persistent human rights challenges in South Sudan, as outlined in the latest report by the Commission of Human Rights in South Sudan. This statement was delivered today at the Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the report during the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.
The UK’s statement, delivered by [Insert Representative’s Name and Title Here, if available – otherwise, say “a representative from the UK Mission to the UN in Geneva”], highlighted specific areas of concern, building upon the Commission’s findings and reinforcing the UK’s commitment to promoting human rights, accountability, and peace in South Sudan.
Key Concerns Raised in the UK’s Statement:
While the full text of the statement is currently unavailable, based on past UK statements and the known issues in South Sudan, the following points are highly likely to have been addressed:
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Perpetration of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV): The UK has consistently condemned the high levels of SGBV, often used as a weapon of war in South Sudan. The statement likely called for strengthened accountability mechanisms for perpetrators of these crimes, as well as improved support and protection for survivors. This likely included a demand for the government to fully implement the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) provisions related to SGBV.
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Impunity and Lack of Accountability: A key focus was undoubtedly the pervasive impunity for human rights violations and abuses. The UK’s statement likely stressed the urgent need to establish credible and transparent accountability mechanisms, including the Hybrid Court for South Sudan (HCSS), as mandated by the R-ARCSS. The UK likely urged the South Sudanese government and regional partners to prioritize the establishment and operationalization of the HCSS without further delay.
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Political Violence and Conflict-Related Atrocities: The ongoing localized conflicts, driven by political tensions, resource competition, and ethnic divisions, continue to contribute to human rights violations. The UK likely called for a renewed commitment to peaceful dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusive governance to address the root causes of these conflicts. The statement would have also likely condemned attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers.
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Restrictions on Civic Space and Freedom of Expression: The UK is a strong advocate for freedom of expression and the protection of civil society. The statement probably raised concerns about restrictions on journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society organizations in South Sudan. It likely urged the government to create an enabling environment for civil society to operate freely and safely.
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Protection of Civilians and Humanitarian Access: The UK likely expressed concern about the continued displacement of millions of South Sudanese citizens due to conflict and insecurity. The statement likely reiterated the importance of ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access to all those in need and protecting civilians from harm. It likely condemned attacks on humanitarian personnel and assets.
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Transitional Justice: The statement likely acknowledged the importance of a comprehensive transitional justice strategy, including truth-telling, reparations, and institutional reform, to address the legacy of past atrocities and prevent future violations.
Beyond the Concerns: The UK’s Call for Action:
Beyond outlining these concerns, the UK’s statement would have undoubtedly included a call to action, likely urging the South Sudanese government to:
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Fully implement the R-ARCSS: This remains the cornerstone for peace and stability in South Sudan. The UK likely urged all parties to the agreement to adhere to its provisions and work constructively towards its full implementation.
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Strengthen the rule of law and accountability: This includes operationalizing the HCSS and addressing impunity for human rights violations.
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Protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access: This involves upholding international humanitarian law and ensuring the safety and security of humanitarian workers.
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Promote reconciliation and inclusive governance: This requires addressing the root causes of conflict and creating a more inclusive political system.
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Cooperate with international human rights mechanisms: This includes granting access to UN Special Rapporteurs and engaging constructively with the UN Human Rights Council.
UK’s Commitment:
The UK’s statement concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting the people of South Sudan in their pursuit of peace, stability, and human rights. The UK has provided significant humanitarian assistance to South Sudan and has been a strong advocate for accountability and justice. The statement likely reiterated the UK’s intention to continue working with the South Sudanese government, regional partners, and international organizations to address the human rights challenges in the country. This support will likely include diplomatic efforts, technical assistance, and financial contributions.
Background:
The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has repeatedly documented widespread and systematic human rights violations and abuses, including war crimes and crimes against humanity. Its reports serve as a crucial source of information for the international community. The Enhanced Interactive Dialogue at the Human Rights Council provides a platform for states to express their concerns and engage with the Commission on its findings.
Further Development:
It is expected that the full text of the UK statement will be published on the GOV.UK website in the coming days. Further information regarding the UK’s engagement on South Sudan can be found on the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website.
This article will be updated with more specific details once the full text of the statement is released.
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