The peace process in South Sudan is facing increasing strain as hostilities escalate, threatening the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS). On August 18, 2025, UN Special Representative to South Sudan, Ms. Bobby, informed the Security Council of the international community's continued calls for an end to violence, de-escalation, and a return to dialogue. However, these appeals have been met with a concerning lack of concrete action, perpetuating a cycle of violations that undermines the Transitional Government of National Unity's ability to implement the peace accord.
Ms. Bobby warned that the current trajectory could shift the conflict from broader national violence and intercommunal strife into a more complex landscape characterized by tribal divisions. This intricate web involves signatory parties and external actors, with the potential to draw in elements from neighboring countries. To overcome this political deadlock, she urged all parties to recommit to the ceasefire, release political detainees, engage in high-level dialogue, and reaffirm their dedication to a comprehensive peace process. Key issues requiring immediate attention include transitional security arrangements, transitional justice, constitutional development, and the organization of elections.
The humanitarian situation in South Sudan remains critical, exacerbated by significant funding cuts that leave millions without essential life-saving assistance. Between April and July 2025, an estimated 7.7 million people faced severe food insecurity, with 83,000 individuals on the brink of catastrophic conditions. The South Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan for 2025 has secured only 28.5% of its required funding, leaving a substantial gap of approximately $1.2 billion needed to assist 5.4 million vulnerable individuals. This shortfall critically hampers aid delivery across sectors such as food security, nutrition, and health.
Adding to the complexity, the conflict in neighboring Sudan has spilled over, driving over 1.2 million people into South Sudan and straining already limited resources. The economic impact is also significant, with oil revenues disrupted due to fighting affecting transit routes. The R-ARCSS itself is under immense pressure, with concerns about low political will and a trust deficit among signatories. The agreement's implementation has been sluggish, with critical tasks and election preparations for December 2026 lagging significantly. The potential for a return to widespread conflict looms large, with ethnic dimensions increasingly coloring the tensions. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the urgent need for renewed commitment to the peace agreement to avert further deterioration of the humanitarian and security landscape.