A coalition of international partners has called on South Sudan’s leaders to urgently return to dialogue and fully respect the provisions of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, warning that unilateral actions could undermine the country’s fragile peace process.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the embassies of Australia, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Delegation of the European Union said the peace agreement remains the foundation of legitimacy for South Sudan’s Transitional Government.
“The Peace Agreement remains the basis of legitimacy for the transitional government in South Sudan,” the statement read.
The diplomats cautioned that unilateral changes to the agreement are inconsistent with both the letter and spirit of the accord and would not contribute to lasting peace and stability in the country.
“Unilateral changes to the Agreement are not in accordance with the letter and spirit of the Agreement and will not bring peace to South Sudan,” the statement added.
The international partners urged all signatories to the peace deal to immediately resume dialogue and work together to address outstanding issues through consensus and peaceful engagement.
The statement comes at a time of growing political tensions and uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which ended years of civil war and established a power-sharing arrangement among rival political parties.
South Sudan’s transitional government has repeatedly stated its commitment to holding the country’s first post-independence general elections, describing the polls as a critical step toward democratic transition.
Authorities have in recent months continued preparations and discussions on electoral processes, despite concerns over delays in implementing key provisions of the peace agreement, including security arrangements, constitution-making, and civic preparations necessary for credible elections.
The latest appeal by international partners also comes amid increasing concerns over the political environment involving opposition figures linked to the opposition group SPLM-IO.
Political observers and civil society groups have expressed concern over legal proceedings and restrictions involving opposition leaders and members associated with the movement led by First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. Analysts warn that unresolved disputes among peace partners could further complicate implementation of the agreement and affect political trust ahead of any electoral process.
The international community has consistently maintained that full implementation of the peace agreement and sustained political dialogue remain essential for preserving stability and creating conditions for peaceful and credible elections.
Observers say the call for dialogue reflects broader concerns that political disagreements and unilateral decisions could jeopardize progress made under the peace deal and risk renewed instability if key stakeholders fail to engage constructively.
