Statement by Deputy Permanent Representative Anna Evstigneeva at UNSC Briefing on South Sudan
Mr. President,
I would like to begin my statement by extending condolences to the UN, to the Government of South Africa and to the family and friends of Nicholas Haysom, an outstanding person and a remarkable political figure who made a significant contribution to promoting peace and justice in his country and throughout the world.
We wish to thank the SRSG and Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, as well the USG and Head of OCHA, Mr. Tom Fletcher. We are grateful for their briefings. We welcome the participation in this meeting of the Permanent Representative of South Sudan.
We would like to take this opportunity to wish every success to Ms. Gbeho in her new and very demanding position.
The security situation in South Sudan does not bode well. Several northern states are seeing intensified clashes between government forces and the opposition. The situation is most alarming in Jonglei State, where the national armed forces proceed with an operation to restore order and curb the activities of subversive forces. The situation is also unstable in Greater Equatoria and Upper Nile states. Armed clashes are disrupting normal life in these areas and forcing people to flee their homes. As a result, the already dire humanitarian situation is ever-worsening. The UN humanitarian agencies and their partners in the country have to disperse their efforts and resources to address these challenges, which is particularly difficult given the severe underfunding of the humanitarian response plan. At times, humanitarian personnel are working in live-threatening conditions. In this regard, we flag that any acts of violence against humanitarian workers and other UN personnel present in the country are unacceptable.
Significant attention has been focused on the dynamics of the political process in South Sudan. Juba has come under a great deal of criticism. It is being accused of virtually undermining the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, which remains the only viable framework for resolving the conflict in the country and establishing robust, inclusive governing bodies. We note that the South Sudanese leadership has not renounced its commitment to this document, which is evidenced by their decision to expedite the transition period through elections scheduled for December of this year. We believe it is important for the Council to focus its efforts on assisting the South Sudanese in maintaining an appropriate security environment in the run-up to this important event, and in preventing internal tensions. It is necessary to dispel the misconception that South Sudan is incapable of advancing the political process on its own, without external interference. The country needs substantive assistance, not criticism, especially in light of mounting economic challenges. We believe that it is precisely in such a constructive manner that the African Union and IGAD are approaching their mediation efforts regarding South Sudan.
A decisive role in maintaining relative stability in the country is still being played by UNMISS. At this critical juncture, it is essential to ensure that the Mission’s multifaceted mandate remains unchanged, including when it comes to its role in facilitating the peace process. To respond effectively to current and potential threats, UNMISS must remain adequately staffed and ready to carry out its tasks of protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian access.
We trust that the Government of South Sudan will continue to maintain a constructive dialogue with UNMISS to overcome emerging challenges, including issues regarding the Mission’s use of certain bases located in the country, as well as in defining the modalities for reducing the UN presence. It is important to note that the South Sudanese are open to cooperation with the Mission and are not interested in its withdrawal. For our part, we will continue to support such an approach of Juba.
Thank you.
