JUBA - The United Nations Mission in South Sudan’s (UNMISS) latest quarterly human rights brief reveals a concerning security and civilian protection landscape. While there have been reductions in the overall number of conflict-related incidents, concern is increased about some of the most grievous abuses affecting civilians.
Covering the period from July to September 2025, the brief documents 295 incidents of conflict-related violence, impacting 1,153 civilians, of which 519 have been killed, 396 injured, 159 abducted, and 79 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV). This represents a 12 percent decrease in the number of incidents and a 24 percent decrease in the total number of victims compared to the previous quarter (April–June 2025).
Despite an 18 percent decrease in civilian killings and a 41 percent reduction in injuries, the brief raises serious concerns over a 20 percent increase in abductions and a seven percent rise in CRSV cases.
The brief indicates persistent armed hostilities involving the conventional parties to the armed conflict and other armed groups and allied militias. Vitally, it reveals that the protection of civilians remains severely compromised due to widespread armed confrontations, shelling, aerial bombardments, and targeted airstrikes in parts of Central Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Western Equatoria states. Furthermore, forced displacement—a direct consequence of ongoing violence—continues undermining efforts to build peace in South Sudan, while also exposing civilians, particularly women and children, to heightened risks and severe humanitarian needs.
“While the decline in casualties this quarter offers a measure of hope, the increase in abductions and sexual violence, and persistent armed hostilities are unacceptable. All parties must respect international humanitarian and human rights law and recommit to protecting civilians. Accountability for violations and respect for human rights remain essential for building trust, reconciliation, and a durable peace in South Sudan,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer-in-Charge, UNMISS.
For its part, UNMISS continues working alongside national, state, and local authorities, communities and their leaders, and all partners to strengthen civilian protection, promote accountability, and support collective efforts toward lasting peace and stability in the country.
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Contact: UNMISS Spokesperson, Priyanka Chowdhury at chowdhury20@un.org or unmiss-spokesperson@un.org