Since 2018, South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, continues to face deep instability and violence despite a peace agreement aimed at ending years of civil war.
Armed clashes between government forces, opposition groups and local militias continue to displace thousands of people, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.
Sexual violence is widespread
“My 8-year-old daughter was raped and I don’t know what to do because her future is already damaged,” explained Grace Hadia, mother of a survivor of sexual violence. “I have not been able to sleep since this incident. I hope justice prevails with the deployment of the mobile court.”
UN peacekeepers accompany justice experts to Mundri, in a remote part of Western Equatoria in South Sudan.
Many similar and deeply painful stories emerged during the assessment, and authorities documented 35 pending cases, including nine murder cases, 15 involving sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and others involving robbery and other more serious crimes.
Local leaders say gender violence is a problem that continues to grow.
“Recently, during a funeral, a woman was raped by seven men. We are still searching for the suspects so that they can face justice,” said Mundri West County Commissioner Zilpha Dawa. “What we lack is a counter (VG) at the police station.
These cases are usually treated as common crimes. “We urgently need trained staff to properly handle reports of gender-based violence and maintain accurate records.”
No courts, no trials
The lack of functioning courts has also left many suspects waiting for years in detention without trial, contributing to serious prison overcrowding.
Mobile courts are helping to support justice in South Sudan.
“I have spent two and a half years in prison without trial. Now I have hope that the mobile court will arrive and that justice will finally prevail,” said one alleged perpetrator.
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan is supporting the assessment mission and mobile court to strengthen the chain of justice and build confidence among communities in the rule of law.
Mobile courts represent more than legal procedures; They will bring responsibility and healing. And for many, it is the first real hope that long-delayed justice can finally be served.