The African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council is urged to use its January 19 ambassadorial-level meeting to address the escalating human rights abuses and urgent protection needs in South Sudan. The meeting follows an assessment by the AU High-Level Ad Hoc Committee on South Sudan, which evaluated the implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. This agreement has been undermined by unilateral amendments from President Salva Kiir’s party, contributing to ongoing political instability.
Over the past year, the AU has increased diplomatic engagement through the deployment of the Panel of the Wise and field visits, but the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate. Fighting between government-allied forces and opposition groups, along with their allied militias, has resulted in widespread violations of international humanitarian law, including killings of civilians, forced recruitment, sexual violence, and attacks on civilian infrastructure. Aerial bombardments have specifically targeted densely populated areas, injuring and killing civilians, including incidents near schools, markets, and health facilities.
Government authorities have conducted forced recruitment of children and adults and increased repression against political opponents, journalists, and activists. Persistent impunity and political accommodation of perpetrators have fueled recurring cycles of abuses, making civilian protection increasingly precarious.
Human Rights advocates call on the AU Peace and Security Council to demand an immediate end to attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, halt the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, and guarantee unimpeded humanitarian access. The Council should also sanction commanders and officials responsible for serious abuses, reconsider previous positions on lifting the UN arms embargo and sanctions, and commit to a clear timeline for establishing a hybrid court to hold perpetrators accountable.
By leveraging its tools and influence, the AU Peace and Security Council can help prevent further abuses, protect civilians, and signal that grave violations in South Sudan will not be ignored.
