Recent violence in Nasir County, South Sudan, has led to widespread displacement and injuries, stemming from clashes between the SSPDF and local armed youth. The ongoing conflict signifies failures in the peace agreement and highlights urgent calls for a unified force instead of national troops implicated in abuses. International norms on civilian protection must be enforced to prevent further harm to innocent populations.
In South Sudan’s Nasir County, a significant increase in violence is endangering communities and threatening to exacerbate the region’s crisis. Since early 2024, clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and local armed youth have intensified, particularly following a February 14, 2025 attack by the SSPDF on civilians in a marketplace, which resulted in mass displacement and numerous injuries, including that of a peacekeeper.
The ongoing strife illustrates the consequences of unresolved past conflicts and the failure to implement critical security arrangements from South Sudan’s revitalized peace agreement established in 2018. Efforts towards security sector reform, disarmament, and the integration of various armed groups have stalled, leaving the nation susceptible to violence as divisions persist among political factions.
Local populations in Nasir have advocated for the establishment of a unified military force to replace the national defense troops, which have been accused of perpetrating abuses against civilians. In response to these calls, authorities deployed troops, including ethnic militias that had not undergone formal unification. This action prompted local youth to mobilize in fear of possible forced disarmament and further attacks.
On February 25, the SSPDF initiated airstrikes targeting the SPLA/IO positions while simultaneously urging local youth to disband. Unfortunately, these airstrikes impacted civilian areas, escalating the potential for conflict. International humanitarian law strictly forbids indiscriminate attacks that do not differentiate between military and civilian targets, with potential violations classified as war crimes.
In light of the deteriorating situation, authorities must enhance civilian protection and foster trust between communities and the SSPDF. This requires the incorporation of community insights into security initiatives and a halt to impunity for past abuses. Additionally, the international community should advocate for accountability in these matters, ensuring that decisive actions are taken to safeguard civilians from ongoing violence.
The resurgence of violence in South Sudan’s Nasir County highlights critical failures in peace implementation, particularly regarding security arrangements and community relations. The need for a unified military force is urgent, as current troops perpetuate civilian abuse. International norms regarding civilian protection must be upheld, and authorities are called upon to prioritize accountability and community engagement to mitigate further conflict.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
