Violence against civilians in South Sudan has surged to its highest levels in years, with 1,607 victims recorded in the first quarter of 2025, according to a new report released by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
The report, which covers the period from January to March 2025, reveals alarming increases across all categories of violence. Among the victims were 739 civilians killed, 679 injured, 149 abducted, and 40 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) — the highest figures for any quarter since 2020.
Compared to the last quarter of 2024, the number of victims has nearly doubled, rising from 866 to 1,607 — an 86% increase. Civilian deaths more than doubled from 352 to 739, while injuries climbed from 350 to 679. Abductions increased from 129 to 149, and cases of CRSV rose from 35 to 40.
Warrap State emerged as the most affected region, reporting 428 deaths and 298 injuries — accounting for over 60% of all civilian killings nationwide. Central Equatoria also saw a steep rise, with a 260% increase in victims and the highest number of abductions.
The report also highlights a disturbing rise in violence against children and women. The number of child victims increased from 114 to 171, while women and girls accounted for 98% of those subjected to CRSV and other forms of gender-based violence.
Most attacks were attributed to community-based militias or civil defense groups (66%), followed by unidentified armed elements (22%). Notably, conventional parties to the conflict and other armed groups were responsible for 15% of the violations, marking a 27% increase in their involvement compared to the previous quarter.
“The escalation of violence by armed groups and militias is severely undermining the protection of civilians,” said Guang Cong, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for UNMISS. “It is the Government’s primary responsibility to protect its people and prevent further violence.”
UNMISS has called for urgent, coordinated efforts at all levels of government and society to address the root causes of violence, resolve local grievances through dialogue, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
“Together with our regional and international partners, we call for collective action to end this deadly cycle,” Cong emphasized.
As part of its mandate, UNMISS continues to support peace and protection efforts through thousands of lands, air, and river patrols, local reconciliation initiatives, mobile courts, and support to rule of law institutions. The mission also plays a key role in advancing political processes and promoting justice for victims of human rights and humanitarian law violations.
