 has reported a decline in killings and injuries across the country, but expressed alarm over a sharp rise in abductions and sexual violence in its latest quarterly human rights brief.){kind=link}
By Ginaba Lino
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has reported a decline in killings and injuries across the country, but expressed alarm over a sharp rise in abductions and sexual violence in its latest quarterly human rights brief.
Covering the period from July to September 2025, the report documented 295 conflict-related incidents, affecting 1,153 civilians, including 519 killed, 396 injured, 159 abducted, and 79 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
This represents a 12 percent decrease in violent incidents and a 24 percent drop in total victims compared to the previous quarter (April–June 2025).
However, despite these overall improvements, UNMISS noted an 8 percent decline in civilian killings and a 41 percent reduction in injuries, while abductions increased by 20 percent and CRSV cases rose by 7 percent.
The mission warned that armed hostilities remain widespread, involving conventional forces, armed groups, and allied militias in Central Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Western Equatoria States.
It said the protection of civilians continues to be severely compromised due to armed confrontations, shelling, aerial bombardments, and targeted attacks, which have also caused forced displacement and heightened humanitarian needs, particularly among women and children.
“While the decline in casualties this quarter offers a measure of hope, the increase in abductions and sexual violence, and persistent armed hostilities are unacceptable,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge of UNMISS. “All parties must respect international humanitarian and human rights law and recommit to protecting civilians. Accountability and respect for human rights are essential for building trust, reconciliation, and lasting peace in South Sudan.”
UNMISS reaffirmed its commitment to working with national, state, and local authorities, as well as communities and partners, to enhance the protection of civilians, promote accountability, and support ongoing peacebuilding efforts across the country.