This archive report was first published on 21 July 2019.
South Sudan is on the brink of a major transition, with a new government set to take power in November. However, the country's human rights record remains a major concern, with local and international organizations expressing alarm over the deteriorating situation.
At the 6th Human Rights Forum in Juba, government officials, civil society representatives, and international observers gathered to discuss the state of human rights in South Sudan. The forum highlighted the shrinking civic space for human rights defenders and civil society, with many facing reprisals from the state.
According to a report by the forum, the National Security Service's practice of requiring approval for meetings in Juba and other locations is a clear contravention of the right to freedom of assembly and association under Article 25 (1) of the Transitional Constitution.
Brian Adeba, deputy director of Policy at the Enough Project, emphasized the need for external pressure to hold the government accountable. 'No one can hold the government accountable without external pressure and without the government's endorsement of the process,' he said.
Despite these concerns, top government officials have dismissed criticism of the government's human rights record. General Gabriel Jok Riak, the Chief of Defence Forces, told soldiers that sacrifice is more important than salary, and that no pay is part of the sacrifice. A soldier receives roughly 1,800 pounds ($6) a month.
Minister for Information Michael Makuei, who is also the government spokesperson, has also downplayed concerns over human rights. He suggested that citizens who are unhappy with the government's performance can simply hang themselves from trees.
A report by Amnesty International, released on July 18, 2019, highlights the widespread human rights abuses in South Sudan. The report notes that the Juba administration has increased its crackdown on peaceful dissent, with the intention of avoiding a replication of popular protests in neighboring Sudan.
Amnesty International's Joan Nyanyuki said, 'It is a shame that authorities fail to appreciate the role that respecting, protecting and promoting human rights play in growth and development.'
