Resolution 2778 (2025), passed on Wednesday, allows UNMISS to continue exercising “all necessary means” to fulfill its mandate, originally set to expire on April 30. The nine-day extension provides additional time for the Council to deliberate the mission’s future amid deteriorating political and security conditions in the country.
South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, is again facing instability following the house arrest of First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar on March 26. The move has deepened the rift between Machar and President Salva Kiir, threatening the already fragile peace process.
The two leaders, once wartime adversaries, signed a revitalized peace agreement in 2018, leading to the formation of a transitional government in 2020. However, disputes over implementation, ongoing violence, and power struggles have severely undermined the deal.
Peace monitors have raised alarm over the recent developments, warning that renewed conflict could unravel gains made over the past five years.
UNMISS was established in 2011 through Resolution 1996 to support the country’s peace and security efforts following independence. Its mandate has been renewed annually to respond to persistent challenges, including violence, displacement, and threats to civilian protection.
The Council held its latest briefing on South Sudan on April 16, but consensus on a long-term renewal has yet to be reached.
