This archive report was first published on 24 July 2020.
July 24, 2020 - The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (Igad) held its 36th meeting remotely on July 14, with the South Sudan peace process as the main agenda. Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in achieving durable peace in South Sudan.
After nearly seven years of civil war, South Sudan is at a critical phase of peacebuilding. An interim unity government, formed just five months ago, is struggling to unite the country around a new vision. Despite progress, challenges abound, including intercommunal violence that could easily escalate into widespread conflict.
South Sudan's path to peace is fraught with obstacles. The country is supposed to hold national elections in 2022, but this requires a constitutional review and the establishment of credible election structures. The justice, law, and order sector also needs support to create conditions for a free and informed choice of leaders.
The Covid-19 pandemic has further complicated South Sudan's situation. With oil prices at historic lows, the country is struggling to pay its way. Traditional supporters of the peace process may be hard-pressed to sustain their support, leaving South Sudan vulnerable to slipping back into conflict.
Despite the challenges, considerable progress has been made towards setting up the structures for a transitional government. To turn the next corner, South Sudan needs moral, logistical, and financial support from its neighbors and the international community.
The people of South Sudan are counting on the international community to ensure that the country does not slip back into armed conflict. The Igad heads of state meeting is a crucial reminder of the parties' commitments and a platform for discussing the remaining tasks.
