Still In Danger: Women and girls face sexual violence in South Sudan despite peace deal

In recent years South Sudan has seen some of the highest levels of sexual violence in the world. Although most forms of political violence decreased when the peace agreement was signed in 2018, levels of conflict-related sexual violence persisted. Women and girls are attacked by armed men while traveling, and widespread displacement exacerbates the risk for intimate partner violence and underage pregnancy. There are often no consequences for perpetrators of gender-based violence, as the government and national police are uncapable of responding adequately. Gender-based violence remains one of the biggest threats to the protection and well-being of women and children in the country.  

This report is based on interviews with UN, government, and NGO officials as well as IDPs living in protection sites in South Sudan. The main focus is on gender-based violence and the lack of accountability associated with these crimes.