South Sudan is heading toward another man-made humanitarian disaster as fighting, attacks on civilians, and political chaos drive millions toward starvation, according to Human Rights Watch. More than half the country’s population – 7.7 million people – now face acute food insecurity. At least 83,000 are in the worst category where starvation and death are happening now. The latest food security report shows these numbers represent the most severe crisis classification.
The situation comes from ongoing conflict that erupted after years of civil war and political instability. Upper Nile State has been hit hardest, particularly around Nasir and Ulang. Food shortages are so bad there and aid access so limited that these areas could slip into famine. Government forces have dropped incendiary bombs in the fighting, destroying hospitals, markets, and farms.
Months of fighting have killed hundreds and forced tens of thousands to flee their homes. A hospital in Ulang run by Médecins Sans Frontières was looted by gunmen and had to close. Recent government food drops in Nasir and Ulang were done by a US company working with a Ugandan aviation firm that also helps the government’s military. This raises questions about whether the aid was truly neutral. Using starvation as a weapon is a war crime under international law, which the United Nations (UN) has already documented in South Sudan.
Foreign aid cuts have made the crisis worse just when people need help most. Save the Children closed seven health clinics in Jonglei state after US funding was cut. The international community needs to fully fund humanitarian response plans, demand safe access for aid organizations, and sanction those who block help.
Without quick political and humanitarian action, famine could become reality for tens of thousands already suffering. Human Rights Watch called for donors and regional partners to pressure armed actors to end attacks on civilians and infrastructure while making sure aid groups can reach people who need help.
