Factors included ongoing inter/intra-community violence involving community militias and/or civil defense groups; hostilities between the warring parties and other armed groups – including the alleged involvement of foreign forces – political tensions between the ruling party and the opposition, and ethnic polarization.
Murders and other abuse
The letter documents 295 incidents of conflict-related violence, involving 1,153 civilians, including 166 women and 93 children (46 boys and 47 girls).
Of this number is 519 civilians were killed, 396 injured, 159 kidnapped and 79 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).
This means a decrease of 12 percent in the number of incidents and a decrease of 24 percent in the total number of victims compared to the previous quarter.
Lost hopes
But despite an 18 percent decline in civilian killings and a 41 percent decline in injuries, kidnappings have increased by 20 percent, alongside a seven percent increase in CRSV cases.
“While the The decline in casualties this quarter offers some hope, the increase in kidnappings and sexual violence, and the continued armed hostilities are unacceptable,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, officer-in-charge of the unmimiss.
The report shows that the protection of civilians remains at serious risk due to widespread armed clashes, shelling, aerial bombardment and targeted airstrikes in parts of Central Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal and Western Equatoria.
Moreover, forced displacement – a direct consequence of ongoing violence – continues to undermine peacebuilding efforts, while also exposing civilians to increased risks and dire humanitarian needs.
Ms Ghebo urged all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights law and recommit to the protection of civilians.
“Accountability for violations and respect for human rights remain essential for building trust, reconciliation and lasting peace in South Sudan,” she said.
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