16.04.2025 Statement by Denmark at the UNSC briefing on South Sudan (UNMISS)

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Thank you, Mr. President,

Let me also thank SRSG Haysom, Director Wosornu and Ms. Nasiwa  for their briefings.  I also welcome the permanent representative of South Sudan to the Chamber.

What we have heard today, recent developments in South Sudan have been nothing short of alarming.

Reports of brutal violence against civilians, and the looming risk of a return to civil war are extremely concerning. 

Denmark urges the all actors to immediately cease their armed operations and put the people of South Sudan first. 

Mr. President,

I will focus on four key points.

First,

The 2018 Peace Agreement remains the most viable path forward, and all parties must recommit to it. 

This agreement was crafted to provide guidance towards lasting peace, establishing mechanisms to resolve political differences and hold the perpetrators of past crimes accountable. Now is the time to recommit to these mechanisms, not to turn away from them. As we have heard today, the collapse of this Agreement could have catastrophic consequences

The leaders of both sides have a responsibility to do all in their power to avoid that.

The arrest of First Vice President Dr Riek Machar does not foster an atmosphere conducive to dialogue and peace. We urge President Kiir to reverse this decision. To focus on rebuilding trust across South Sudan.

Likewise, the continued violations of the arms embargo must be stopped, along with other means of external military engagement, which is fuelling the conflict.

Second, Mr. President,

Mediation efforts by regional organizations and regional leaders at the highest level are essential. These are not distant observers, but trusted and credible partners. As others have stated, Denmark fully supports the African Union and IGAD in their outreach and mediation efforts and we strongly urge the parties to engage.

The AU delegation, led by the Panel of the Wise, is a commendable initiative.  We call on South Sudanese leaders to allow this delegation to conduct its mediation efforts free from interference.  The Panel must have the opportunity to consult with all parties.

Third, Mr. President,

Alongside regional leadership, we recognise the indispensable role played by UNMISS.

We are alarmed by recent attacks on UNMISS personnel and assets and call for full accountability for those responsible.  We note the increase in SOFA violations, and call on the Government of South Sudan to fully comply with the Status of Forces Agreement.

In these challenging circumstances, from renewed clashes to the adverse impacts of climate change, the Council has a responsibility to ensure UNMISS can fulfil its mandate effectively. That includes through robust presence and adequate resources. 

The Mission must be able to protect civilians, including women, youth and children, who are especially vulnerable in fragile contexts.

It must also be able to support the safe and meaningful participation of women in the peace process.

And it must be enabled to continue supporting efforts to combat impunity and promote accountability for violations of international humanitarian law and violations and abuses of human rights, including sexual and gender-based violence.

Fourth, Mr. President,

This violence is taking place against the backdrop of an already dire humanitarian situation, with millions displaced as a result. As the OCHA Director highlighted, it has also exacerbated a widespread cholera outbreak and causing acute food insecurity, pushing communities to the brink. In addition, South Sudan remains extremely dangerous for aid workers.

We call on all actors to uphold international humanitarian and human rights law.  This is particularly urgent amid diminishing donor funding.

In conclusion, Mr. President,

We cannot allow the world’s youngest nation and its people to endure the horrors of war, once again.

Denmark stands ready to continue its support to UNMISS and the people of South Sudan.

Thank you.