United Nations extends arms embargo in South Sudan, bringing hope to victims of decade-long conflict.

UN Security Council Extends Arms Embargo on South Sudan for a Year

The United Nations Security Council has extended the arms embargo on South Sudan for another year, in an effort to stem the flow of weapons that have been used for committing serious human rights violations, including rape and other forms of sexual violence. Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s regional director for East and Southern Africa, hailed the decision as welcome news for millions of civilians who have suffered in conflict. However, he expressed concern about loopholes in the embargo that allow the import of “non-lethal” equipment without the need for Security Council approval.

Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Remains Rampant in South Sudan

The extension of the arms embargo comes as a response to the resurgence of conflict-related sexual violence in South Sudan. The UN Commission on Human Rights, the UN Panel of Experts, and the Secretary General’s recent reports to the Security Council have all reported an increase in cases of such violence. Amnesty International’s own report also highlighted how guns are used by government soldiers, opposition-aligned groups, and non-stated armed groups to commit acts of sexual violence in South Sudan.

Implementation of Security Council Benchmarks Remains Limited

The Security Council’s decision to extend the arms embargo is also a message to the South Sudanese government that they must urgently implement measures to address conflict-related sexual violence, among other benchmarks set by the Council under Resolution 2577 of May 2021. These include the completion of the Strategic Defence and Security Review process contained in the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), formation of the necessary unified forces, disarmament, demobilization and reintegration process, and proper management of existing arms and ammunition stockpiles. Implementation of these benchmarks has been slow, or in some cases, nonexistent.

Accountability for Violating Arms Embargo Must Be Enforced

Chagutah underscored the need for effective measures to control the flow of weapons into South Sudan, and for holding states, businesses, or individuals accountable for violating the arms embargo. While non-lethal equipment may seem harmless, research has shown that security forces continue to misuse such weapons for violent suppression of peaceful protests, causing horrific injuries and deaths.

Editorial: Urgent Action Needed to Address Conflict-Related Violence in South Sudan

The extension of the arms embargo on South Sudan is a necessary step to protect civilians from human rights violations committed by people with guns. However, a mere extension is not enough, as the situation on the ground remains dire. Conflict-related sexual violence is rampant, and benchmarks set by the Security Council to address the conflict have not been met. The South Sudanese government must urgently implement measures to address conflict-related violence, and the international community must hold them accountable.

Advice: Prioritize Protection of Civilians in South Sudan

As the conflict in South Sudan enters its eleventh year, the international community must prioritize the protection of civilians. The extension of the arms embargo on South Sudan is a positive step, but much more needs to be done. The South Sudanese government must take urgent action to address conflict-related violence, and the international community must demand accountability for human rights violations. The United Nations must continue to closely monitor the situation in South Sudan, as well as the implementation of Security Council benchmarks, and take urgent action to protect civilian populations from the devastating impact of armed conflict.

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