Factors included persistent inter- or intra-community violence involving community militias and/or civil defense groups; hostilities between the warring parties and other armed groups – including the alleged involvement of foreign forces –, political tensions between the ruling party and the opposition, and ethnic polarization.
Murders and other abuses
The report documents 295 incidents of conflict-related violence, affecting 1,153 civilians, including 166 women and 93 children (46 boys and 47 girls).
From this number, 519 civilians were killed, 396 were injured, 159 were kidnapped and 79 were victims of conflict-related sexual violence. (CRSV).
This represents a 12 percent decrease in the number of incidents and a 24 percent decrease in the total number of victims compared to the previous quarter.
Frustrated hope
However, despite an 18 percent decrease in civilian killings and a 41 percent reduction in injuries, kidnappings increased by 20 percent along with a seven percent increase in CRSV cases.
“While the The decrease in casualties this quarter offers some hope, the increase in kidnappings and sexual violence and the persistence of armed hostilities are unacceptable.”said Anita Kiki Gbeho, officer in charge of UNMISS.
The brief reveals that the protection of civilians remains severely compromised due to widespread armed clashes, shelling, aerial bombardment and targeted airstrikes in parts of Central Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal and Western Equatoria states.
Furthermore, forced displacement – a direct consequence of the current violence – continues to undermine peacebuilding efforts, while exposing civilians to increased risks and grave humanitarian needs.
Ms. Ghebo urged all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights law and recommit to protecting civilians.
“Accountability for violations and respect for human rights remain essential to building trust, reconciliation and lasting peace. in South Sudan,” he said.