On 24, April, 2025, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from Western Equatoria State participated virtually in a significant national meeting organized by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This gathering brought together CSOs from various locations, including Aweil, Bentiu, Bor, Juba, Kuajok, Pibor, Rumbek, Ruwweng, Torit, Wau, Yambio, and Yei, demonstrating a unified effort to address the increasingly deteriorating political and security landscape in South Sudan.
Prior to the national meeting, Western Equatoria CSOs, operating under the umbrella organization known as the Network for Civil Society Organizations (NeCSOs), held a state-level pre-engagement session. This crucial meeting took place on April 23, 2025, and served to align priorities and collective stances ahead of the broader national dialogue. The participants discussed critical issues impacting their communities and the state, focusing on strategies to enhance their roles in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
Key Highlights from the Meeting:
During the national meeting, various significant points were highlighted by the CSOs, reflecting their commitment to fostering peace and dialogue in a context marked by insecurity and division:
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- Call for De-escalation of Violence: CSOs urged all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to reduce tensions and prevent further violence. Emphasizing the importance of peace dialogues, they mentioned that communication is essential for sustainable conflict resolution.
- Discouragement of Hate Speech: Recognizing the damaging effects of hate speech on community cohesion, CSOs called for initiatives to counteract derogatory narratives that fuel division among various ethnic and social groups.
- Proper Deployment of Organized Forces: A strong recommendation was made for security forces to operate within their designated areas, avoiding actions that may incite fear or harm among civilians.
- Advocacy for Military Welfare: Participants emphasized the importance of ensuring timely payments and adequate welfare for army personnel. This acknowledgment of military needs is vital for promoting loyalty and reducing the potential for unrest driven by dissatisfaction within the ranks.
- Civic Education Initiatives: Highlighting the need for informed citizen, CSOs called for enhanced civic education programs aimed at empowering communities to engage in governance and peacebuilding processes effectively.
- Restructuring of National CSO Platforms: There was a concern on the need to restructure existing national CSO platforms or create new one to ensure inclusivity across all states in South Sudan. Such restructuring would allow for better representation of diverse voices, particularly from marginalized regions.
- International Exchange Visits: CSOs advocated for organized exchange visits with international counterparts to share best practices and experiences in peacebuilding, aiming to enrich their strategies and initiatives.
- Funding for Peacebuilding Programs: Lastly, a pressing call was made for increased funding to support CSOs engaged in peacebuilding efforts. Financial support is essential for the sustainability and effectiveness of these organizations in fostering a peaceful future for South Sudan.
Conclusion
The participation of Western Equatoria State’s Civil Society Organizations in the national meeting reflects a critical commitment to addressing South Sudan’s challenges. Their priority on dialogue, inclusivity, and peacebuilding sets a strong foundation for collaborative efforts towards a more stable and peaceful nation. As these organizations continue to advocate for constructive change, their impact in fostering community resilience and unity cannot be overstated.
