UN Warns of Civilian Risk Amid Renewed Fighting and Mass Displacement in South Sudan
- Violence in South Sudan’s Jonglei State had escalated sharply, forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes
- The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said he was “deeply concerned” about the impact of renewed fighting on already vulnerable communities
- Aid agencies warned that the displacement of 180,000 people placed humanitarian support and civilian protection at serious risk
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres was reported to be “deeply concerned” about the continued escalation of violence in South Sudan, according to his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
His remarks followed reports of renewed fighting in Jonglei State, where clashes between opposition militia and government forces had led to many deaths and injuries, as well as the displacement of 180,000 people, Reuters reported.
Source: Getty Images
The country’s military had ordered civilians, UN mission staff, and aid organisations to evacuate three counties in Jonglei ahead of a major offensive against opposition forces. News reports confirmed that the army had launched operations on Sunday, forcing humanitarian agencies to leave areas where fighting was ongoing.
Call to protect civilians
In his statement, Guterres stressed that the violence would “further harm civilian populations who are already in a vulnerable situation.” He urged both the Government of South Sudan and opposition groups to take “immediate and decisive action to halt all military operations and de-escalate the situation through inclusive dialogue.”
The Secretary-General emphasised the importance of prioritising civilian protection and ensuring the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. He noted that two-thirds of South Sudan’s population were projected to require some form of assistance, making the safeguarding of aid and security critical.
Push for political solution
Guterres reminded all parties that the country’s challenges required a “political not military solution.” His comments came in the context of a fragile peace process, following the 2018 peace agreement between the president and his vice-presidential rival, and the establishment of a Revitalised Transitional Government in February 2020. Despite these steps, elections had continued to be postponed.
The Secretary-General welcomed ongoing efforts by the African Union and the East African regional bloc IGAD to support inclusive dialogue. He reiterated that credible elections and political compromise were essential to securing long-term peace in South Sudan.
Source: Getty Images
United Nations announces opportunity for Nigerians
Legit.ng earlier reported that the United Nations has announced the opening of applications for its 64th Graduate Study Programme, which will be held in 2026. The programme, which was themed “AI and Emerging Technologies: Realities, Risks and Opportunities”, was scheduled for two weeks.
According to the United Nations on its website, the two-week intensive seminar will feature lectures, presentations and group work, as well as visits to institutions. The programme will be held from 29 June to 10 July 2026, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.
The UN explained that the application is open to graduate students who were between the ages of 22-32 and applicants must not be fully employed. Applicants are expected to be fluent in written and spoken English. Applicants' academic successes, extracurricular or professional activities, recommendation letters, of motivation statements would form the basis of their screening.
Source: Legit.ng
