THE  INTERNATIONAL LAW AND DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP CENTER: UNDERSTANDING CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY IN SOUTH SUDAN: IMPACT, CHALLENGES, AND PATHS TO JUSTICE

WILLIAM ROMANO UJIKA UCON

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1514

Authors

WILLIAM ROMANO UJIKA UCON BUSOGA UNIVERSITY, UGANDA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i6.1514

Abstract

This dissertation investigates crimes against humanity in South Sudan, focusing on the socio-political challenges following its independence from Sudan in 2011. It examines the widespread atrocities during the civil conflict that began in December 2013, marked by ethnic violence, mass killings, and severe human rights abuses. Using a qualitative approach, the study analyzes secondary sources such as government reports, academic literature, and media accounts to understand the factors behind the conflict and the ensuing humanitarian crisis. Key findings reveal that despite the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005 and South Sudan’s independence, the new state faced significant structural weaknesses. These included poor infrastructure, limited human capital, fragile political institutions, and pervasive corruption, all exacerbated by deep ethnic divisions. The study critically evaluates the judicial system’s role in addressing crimes against humanity, highlighting its inefficacy and lack of legitimacy, which hinder post-conflict peacebuilding. The dissertation also assesses international interventions, particularly the deployment of peacekeeping forces under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2132, and their mixed success in reducing violence and protecting civilians. Additionally, it examines survivors’ expectations of reparations, emphasizing the disparity between international justice standards and the reality in South Sudan’s justice system. In conclusion, the research stresses the importance of establishing robust, inclusive legal frameworks supported by international cooperation to ensure accountability and justice for victims. It provides practical recommendations for policymakers, legal experts, and international organizations to strengthen judicial reform and peacebuilding in post-conflict settings. This work contributes to the broader discourse on state-building and transitional justice, offering insights to address crimes against humanity and promote sustainable peace in South Sudan.

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