The UN Mission in South Sudan in the Context of Changing Security and Regional Dynamics
UNMISS-led Green Corrections Initiative boosts food security and livelihood opportunities in Juba on February 10, 2026. Jaella Brockmann/UNMISS.
South Sudan is facing a period of growing uncertainty. Rising political tensions, delays in implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS), spillover effects from the conflict in Sudan, and mounting economic and humanitarian pressures are testing the country’s fragile stability. At the same time, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is adapting to a newly renewed mandate amid funding constraints and a reduced operational footprint.
In this context, the International Peace Institute (IPI) and the Stimson Center convened a workshop to examine South Sudan’s evolving security environment, regional diplomatic efforts, and the implications of recent changes to UNMISS’s mandate. Participants discussed the role of regional actors, the future of the peace process, challenges surrounding elections and political transition, and the mission’s ability to implement its mandate under increasing operational and financial pressures.
Key themes from the discussion included the continued importance of civilian protection, the need for sustained regional and international political engagement, the risks associated with a reduced mission footprint, and the importance of maintaining community engagement and local peacebuilding efforts amid a rapidly changing political and security landscape.