PRESS RELEASE : UN Human Rights Council 54 – UK Statement on South Sudan [October 2023]
The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 9 October 2023.
Interactive Dialogue with OHCHR on technical assistance and capacity building for South Sudan. Statement delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador Rita French.
Thank you, Mr Vice-President,
We commend the Office’s continued engagement in South Sudan, including through the provision of technical assistance and capacity building.
While we recognise that technical assistance and capacity building is a vital part of the wider international support needed, it is not the sole answer to addressing South Sudan’s human rights, humanitarian and security situation. It needs to be accompanied by strong human rights scrutiny and accountability.
The situation in South Sudan is dire. Attacks on civilians, sexual violence against women and girls, and restrictions to media freedom and civic space have become the norm. With approximately 2 million Internally Displaced Persons in South Sudan, we regret the government of South Sudan’s postponement of the visit by the Special Rapporteur on IDPs, which would have strengthened support from the UN and wider international community on this important issue.
Mr Vice-President,
Five years since the Peace Agreement was signed, we call on the government of South Sudan to implement its roadmap, including by establishing justice and accountability mechanisms, and ensuring free, fair and safe elections for its people.
Mr Salazar,
Thank you for your update. How can the government of South Sudan ensure the establishment of Chapter V accountability mechanisms while delivering free and fair elections in 2024?
Thank you.
