The United Nations or UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on sexual violence concluded her first visit to South Sudan, saying what she witnessed in Bentiu, Unity State was the worst in almost 30 years of experience.
In press statement CRN obtained Zainab Hawa Bangura said there was combination of chronic insecurity, unimaginable living conditions, acute day-to-day protection concerns and rampant sexual violence.
She said a joint Communiqué with the government outlined clear steps to prevent and address sexual violence which is a consistent characteristic, perpetrated by both parties to the conflict.
The Special Representative condemned the atrocities, appealing to the parties to stop the violence immediately.
She warned that the humanitarian cost of the conflict would continue to rise until there is a viable peace agreement between the parties.
The Special Representative expressed concerned about the lack of services for victims of sexual violence and the lack of reporting of this crime to security, judicial, and social welfare actors due to the closure of government offices.