The United Nations’ top human rights official has issued a stark warning about the escalating crisis in South Sudan, calling the situation a ‘forgotten crisis’ on the brink of all-out war. Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, highlighted a 45% increase in documented human rights violations in January compared to December, following a year of violence that claimed over 5,100 lives or injured others.

A Deadly Surge in Violence

Türk detailed a recent attack in Ayod County, Jonglei state, where government troops and allied militias reportedly ordered civilians to gather before opening fire, killing more than 20 unarmed people, including women and children. This incident, among others, has raised serious concerns about the erosion of military discipline on both sides of the conflict.

According to Türk, the country’s fragile peace agreement is under severe strain as hostilities between the government and opposition forces have resumed across multiple states. The violence has also intensified ethnic tensions, with communities being mobilized along ethnic lines. Türk noted that his office has authenticated a recording in which a senior military official urged forces to ‘spare no one and destroy civilian property.’

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The violence has compounded a dire humanitarian situation in South Sudan, already worsened by the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. More than 10 million people in the country require humanitarian assistance, and the arrival of 1.3 million refugees has further strained scarce resources. The UN reported 350 attacks on humanitarian staff and facilities in 2025, a 34% increase from the previous year.

South Sudan remains one of the most dangerous places for aid workers, with the risk of attacks on humanitarian operations persisting despite international efforts to provide relief. The situation has also forced the displacement of thousands, with many fleeing to neighboring countries in search of safety.

Suppression of Free Speech and Human Rights Abuses

Türk also accused the National Security Service of censoring media outlets and intimidating journalists and human rights defenders ahead of the December 2026 elections. The UN documented 27 incidents of arbitrary arrest and intimidation during the year, affecting 62 people, including journalists and activists.

These actions have further stifled freedom of expression and undermined the ability of civil society to hold the government accountable. Türk called for the immediate establishment of the long-delayed Hybrid Court for South Sudan to ensure justice and accountability for the numerous human rights violations.

He emphasized that the current situation is ‘flashing red,’ warning that without swift international action, the country could be pushed back into full-scale civil war. The risk of cycles of retaliation and further fragmentation remains high, with the potential for a new wave of violence that could destabilize the region.

Türk urged the international community to take immediate steps to address the humanitarian and human rights crisis in South Sudan. He noted that acts of hate speech and incitement to violence could amount to international crimes, and those responsible could face prosecution under international law.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for increased international support to prevent further escalation and to ensure the protection of civilians in South Sudan. The situation remains highly volatile, with no clear resolution in sight as the country grapples with internal conflict and external pressures.