How Many People Have Fled the Conflict in South Sudan?
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Synopsis
As conflict escalates in South Sudan, over 165,000 people have been displaced in just three months. UNHCR warns of a deepening humanitarian crisis and calls for immediate action to protect civilians and provide aid. This report highlights the urgent need for international support and the ongoing struggles faced by displaced populations.
Key Takeaways
- Over 165,000 people have been displaced in South Sudan in three months.
- Conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian challenges.
- The UNHCR is calling for $36 million to support displaced individuals.
- Over 2.3 million South Sudanese are refugees in nearby countries.
- Immediate action is needed to protect civilians and provide aid.
Juba, June 4 (NationPress) Over 165,000 individuals have fled due to escalating violence and unrest in South Sudan within the last three months, seeking refuge both domestically and in neighboring countries, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
"South Sudan cannot endure another crisis. The world's youngest nation has taken in more than one million refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict in Sudan, while millions of its own citizens are still recovering from years of turmoil at home," stated Mamadou Dian Balde, the UNHCR's Regional Director for the East, Horn of Africa, and Great Lakes region.
The rise in political instability and heightened hostilities since late February among armed factions has resulted in renewed clashes, especially in Upper Nile state and other critical areas, which have devastated lives and disrupted essential services.
The UNHCR reported that around 100,000 people have sought safety in nearby countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Sudan, and Uganda, citing insecurity, intercommunal violence, and worsening humanitarian conditions as the primary reasons for their exodus.
Humanitarian access to approximately 65,000 newly displaced individuals in affected communities remains severely hindered due to ongoing fighting and movement restrictions in Upper Nile state and other regions.
Critical aid, comprising medicine and healthcare to combat rising cholera cases, has been stalled, with impending rains likely worsening the situation, making transport more difficult and costly, according to the Xinhua news agency.
The UNHCR has indicated a need for $36 million to assist up to 343,000 internally displaced people in South Sudan and refugees arriving in adjacent countries over the next six months.
"We emphasize the urgent need for an immediate halt to hostilities and implore all parties to protect civilians from further suffering and to pursue a peaceful resolution," Balde emphasized.
South Sudan continues to be one of the most significant displacement crises in the region, with over 2.3 million South Sudanese living as refugees in the DRC, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Sudan, as reported by the UNHCR.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the people of South Sudan during this challenging time. The ongoing conflict not only displaces thousands but poses significant humanitarian challenges. Our commitment is to raise awareness and advocate for immediate international intervention to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the displacement in South Sudan?
The ongoing conflict, political instability, and rising hostilities among armed groups since late February are the primary causes of displacement.
How many people have fled South Sudan recently?
Over 165,000 individuals have fled South Sudan in the past three months due to increasing tensions and violence.
What does the UNHCR say about the situation?
The UNHCR has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian aid to support displaced individuals.
How many South Sudanese are living as refugees?
More than 2.3 million South Sudanese are currently living as refugees in neighboring countries like the DRC, Ethiopia, and Uganda.
What assistance is needed for displaced individuals?
The UNHCR requires $36 million to support up to 343,000 internally displaced people and refugees over the next six months.
