What is Happening in South Sudan? FEB 2025
Report Details
Initial Publish Date
Last Updated: 18 FEB 2025
Report Focus Location: South Sudan
Authors: FJ, GZ
Contributors: GSAT
GSAT Lead: MF
RileySENTINEL provides timely intelligence and in-depth analysis for complex environments. Our global team blends international reach with local expertise, offering unique insights to navigate challenging operations. For custom insights or urgent consultations, contact us here.
Key Points
- South Sudan gained independence in 2011 after enduring Africa's longest civil war. However, political disputes, including a 2013 fallout between President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar, triggered a civil war that claimed 50,000 lives and displaced 1.6 million people.
- Despite peace efforts like the 2018 R-ARCSS, violence persists in South Sudan, causing severe humanitarian issues. Millions face worsening food shortages, and over 4 million people have been displaced since 2013, making it one of Africa's most significant refugee crises.
- Recent unrest, including the dismissal of high-ranking officials, the postponement of elections to 2026, and economic struggles like currency depreciation, declining oil revenues, and unpaid salaries, are likely to jeopardize critical humanitarian support.
- In 2025, ethnic riots killed 16 in South Sudan's capital, prompting curfews. Ongoing Sudan clashes added pressure as 101,000 refugees overwhelmed transit sites.
- The 2015 ARCSS and 2018 R-ARCSS aimed to stabilize South Sudan, with UNMISS and sanctions supporting peace. However, leadership disputes and financial issues still undermine progress.
