Australia welcomes the Commission of Inquiry’s report.

The delay in South Sudan’s democratic transition is disappointing. We encourage all parties to the Revitalised Peace Agreement to help facilitate free and fair elections next year. It is crucial the Government ensures women are able to equally and meaningfully participate in this process.

We are concerned by reports of human rights violations and abuses perpetrated by armed groups in South Sudan, including murder, rape and other gender-based violence. The ongoing conflict has resulted in an exceedingly dangerous situation for humanitarian workers and has compounded already dire levels of food insecurity.

Australia calls on South Sudanese authorities to do everything in their power to ensure civilians and humanitarian workers are protected.

Reports of ongoing recruitment and use of children by armed groups in South Sudan are deeply concerning. It is vital all sides to the conflict cease the forcible recruitment of young people for conscription, and that children’s human rights are promoted and protected.

Australia asks what more could the international community do to protect the children of South Sudan?