Campaigners call for end to conflict-related sexual violence in South Sudan
Author: Madrama James | Published: 57 minutes ago
Participants of a two-day workshop on conflict-related sexual violence pose for a group photo after the event. Courtesy photo.
Human rights campaigners and authorities have called for an end to conflict-related sexual violence in South Sudan, saying urgent action is needed to protect survivors and ensure justice.
The call was made during a two-day event in Juba organized by the Center for Inclusive Governance, Peace, and Justice (CIGP), aimed at strengthening advocacy against conflict-related sexual violence in the country.
The event was held under the theme: “End Conflict-Related Sexual Violence: Justice, Healing, and Dignity for Every Survivor”.
Speaking at the event, Bona Deng Lawrence, Chairperson of the Standing Specialized Committee on Peace and Reconciliation, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to establishing the Truth, Healing, and Reconciliation Commission.
He said the commission will help survivors access justice and accountability.
“The Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing Act 2024 and the Compensation and Reparation Authority Act 2024, among other laws, are the two main pillars of transitional justice in South Sudan.
“These laws are centred on victims and survivors and address issues including rights, protection, and support for survivors. Although implementation has been delayed, it will be carried out before or after elections,” he said.
Speaking at the same event, Malala John, Chairperson of the South Sudan Survivors Network, called for justice for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in both Sudan and South Sudan.
“Before independence, we were one country. When something happens in South Sudan, people return to their home areas. And when something happens in Sudan, people also come back to South Sudan. We will not leave them behind. This message should be taken and discussed with their leaders. We have victims from their country, and they must be considered,” he said.
Taban Silvio, Program Manager at the Center for Inclusive Governance, Peace, and Justice (CIGP), expressed solidarity with survivors, their children, and families.
“In particular, and on behalf of the Center for Inclusive Governance, today we remember to mourn and honor the millions of the souls whose lives were violently cut short by the years of human crimes that happened and are still happening in the Republic of South Sudan and the world in general. On this important Memorial Day, we stand in solidarity with the victims, survivors, and their children and families,” he said.
The event was organized by the South Sudanese Network for Sustainable Peace (SUNS) and CIGP, with support from MF and LAW.