Universal Periodic Review Working Group – 40th Session

Universal Periodic Review of South Sudan

Statement by Australia

31 January 2022

Thank you, [President/Vice President]

Australia welcomes recent measures that should help to improve the human rights situation in South Sudan, including the opening of the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly in September 2021, moves towards a permanent constitution, and the intention to establish a hybrid court. However, we remain concerned at the slow progress on implementing other elements of the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement.

We are also concerned that South Sudan continues to use the death penalty.

Australia recommends that South Sudan:

1. Expeditiously implement the 2018 Revitalised Peace Agreement in its entirety, and ensure the full, equal and meaningful participation and leadership of women in all related processes.
2. Ensure the protection of journalists, human rights defenders and humanitarian workers, and ensure their safe access to all areas of the country.
3. Immediately cease the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, and ensure their rehabilitation and reintegration.
4. Take legislative and policy measures to prevent and respond to all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, including related to conflict, ensure perpetrators are held to account, and provide comprehensive services to survivors.

[184 words]