UN calls for calm as violence flares in South Sudan

Recent Violence in South Sudan Sparks Concern for Stability

South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has been plagued by recurring violence and political instability since gaining independence in 2011. Recent clashes in the Upper Nile state have raised fresh concerns about the fragile peace in the country. On February 14 and 15, 2025, fighting broke out in Nasir, a town in Upper Nile state near the border with Sudan. The violence involved the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), the national army led by President Salva Kiir, and an unidentified group of armed youth. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that the clashes resulted in civilian casualties and injuries, including a wounded UN peacekeeper. This escalation has prompted the UN to call for immediate calm and restraint from all parties involved.

The Context of the Fighting and Its Impact

The fighting in Nasir highlights the ongoing challenges of instability in South Sudan, a country rich in oil resources but burdened by poverty and conflict. The clashes reportedly involved heavy weaponry, leading to deaths and injuries among both civilians and armed personnel. While the UN did not provide specific numbers of casualties, the incident underscores the risks faced by innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The injured peacekeeper, part of a UN patrol, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by international forces working to maintain peace in the region. The situation in Nasir also reflects broader tensions in other parts of the country, including Western Equatoria state, where “persistent tensions” between organized forces have been reported.

UN Calls for Restraint and accountability

In response to the violence, Nicholas Haysom, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of UNMISS, issued a strong statement condemning the attacks. He urged all parties to demonstrate restraint and immediately restore calm. Haysom also emphasized the need for accountability, particularly in the case of violence against UN peacekeepers, which he described as a violation of international law. The UN mission reiterated its commitment to protecting civilians and facilitating dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict. Haysom’s statement serves as a reminder of the international community’s role in promoting peace and stability in South Sudan.

The Broader Implications of the Violence

The clashes in Nasir and the tensions in Western Equatoria state are part of a larger pattern of instability in South Sudan. The country endured a brutal five-year civil war from 2013 to 2018, fought between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with his rival, Vice President Riek Machar. A 2018 peace agreement ended much of the fighting and established a unity government, but the deal has yet to be fully implemented. A key component of the agreement—the unification of South Sudan’s armed forces—remains incomplete. Haysom highlighted the urgent need for the unification of these forces to prevent further violence and ensure the country’s long-term stability. The delay in implementing the peace deal has left the country vulnerable to recurring clashes and political infighting.

The Role of the International Community

The UN has played a critical role in South Sudan since its independence, providing security, humanitarian aid, and support for the peace process. UNMISS has consistently called on all parties to adhere to the 2018 peace agreement and work towards a stable future. The mission has also emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring accountability for violations of human rights. The recent violence in Nasir serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by peacekeepers and the need for greater international support to address the root causes of conflict in South Sudan. The UN’s call for calm and accountability reflects the broader international community’s commitment to peace in the region.

Moving Forward: A Path to Peace and Stability

To address the ongoing instability, South Sudan’s leaders must prioritize the full implementation of the 2018 peace agreement. This includes the unification of the country’s armed forces, a critical step towards building trust and preventing future conflicts. Additionally, addressing the underlying causes of violence—such as resource competition, political grievances, and ethnic tensions—will be essential for achieving lasting peace. The international community must continue to support South Sudan through diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and peacekeeping operations. By working together, South Sudan can move beyond its turbulent past and build a future characterized by stability, prosperity, and peace for all its citizens.