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United Nations

Commemorating International Day of Peace in South Sudan

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The International Day of Peace was commemorated on 21 September in South Sudan's capital, Juba, with a focus on building equitable and sustainable peace. This year's theme is particularly significant as the country begins to recover from internecine strife and the COVID-19 pandemic. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) sponsored a panel discussion, featuring speakers from various universities, the South Sudan Peace Commission, and the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Sports.

Key Takeaways:

  • The country-specific theme of this year's International Day of Peace is "Building Equitable and Sustainable Peace," which requires all partners to work together to bring an end to human rights violations, ambushes on major trade routes, and economic hardships.
  • Human rights concerns in South Sudan include killing and injuries, sexually-motivated violence, underage or forced marriages, recruitment of child soldiers, and attacks on schools and places of worship.
  • Young people are encouraged to avoid being grouped into factions along ethnic or regional lines, which can lead to conflict and instead engage in peace initiatives to promote reconciliation, peace, and healing.
  • The lack of justice and impunity can lead to frustration, anger, and trauma, which can breed societal problems, making it essential to address these issues to promote durable peace.
  • The massive youth population in South Sudan (70% under 30 years of age) is a key agent of positive social transformation and needs to be fully engaged and included in the peace process to promote social cohesion and reduce intercommunal tensions and violence.
  • Collective efforts are needed to respond proactively to reports of stigma, trauma, and discrimination, with individuals encouraged to be listening ears and guiding hands for those affected.
  • Grassroots peace initiatives, especially among young people, are essential to promote social cohesion from the bottom up and drive much-needed change.

Statistics:

  • 70 percent of South Sudanese are under 30 years of age (Guy Bennett, Head of the UNMISS Political Affairs Division).
  • The COVID-19 pandemic and internecine strife have had a significant impact on the country, making this year's International Day of Peace commemoration especially significant.
  • Human rights concerns in South Sudan include killing and injuries, sexually-motivated violence, underage or forced marriages, recruitment of child soldiers, and attacks on schools and places of worship.
  • The South Sudan Peace Commission and the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) have been working together to promote peace and stability in the country.

Sources:

  • United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS)
  • Distributed by APO Group
  • World's youngest nation refers to South Sudan (implicitly mentioned as the source)

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