Focusing on peace in South Sudan, this meta-analysis provides an overview of the literature available on formal peace agreements – their limitation and challenges, local level conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms, and disarmament, demobilisation, and reintegration (DDR) processes in South Sudan. Specifically, it explores the structural limitation and implementation challenges of the formal peace agreements and their legacy, as well as looking particularly at the DDR processes envisaged as parts of these agreements. Finally, it…

This report explores the intersection between climate change, peace, and security as well as social, economic and political vulnerabilities at the global level. The report’s findings show that the interplay of climate change, peace, and security transcends borders and intersects with livelihoods and existing conflict risks. The paper concludes with recommendations for how the UN Security Council shapes policies for addressing the complex challenges arising from climate change. Read more here

On January 25, 2023, the International Peace Institute (IPI), the Stimson Center, and Security Council Report organized a workshop to discuss the mandate and political strategy of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This discussion was part of a series of workshops that examine how the activities included in peace operations’ mandates can be better prioritized, sequenced, and grounded in a political strategy. This is the fifth consecutive year in which these partners…

This policy brief presents a summary of findings about citizens’ perceptions of public authority from a survey of South Sudanese respondents in 2021-2022. Respondents shared their views on a range of governance issues, including about whom they trusted to make decisions about their community. Findings suggest that political leaders need to make more targeted efforts to include the most insecure and displaced populations in national projects if they are to build durable legitimacy. This policy…

This policy brief presents a summary of findings about citizens’ perceptions of upcoming national elections, from a survey of South Sudanese respondents in 2021-2022. National elections are meant to be the endpoint of South Sudan’s political transition. Data collected before the announcement of the extension of the transitional period demonstrates strong support from South Sudanese respondents for elections in 2023. Findings suggest that although elections are likely to support and sustain the political status quo,…

This policy brief presents the headline findings about citizens’ perceptions of security and governance from a survey of South Sudanese respondents in 2021-2022. Respondents shared their views on a range of governance topics, from power sharing to the implications of army unification. Respondents who were otherwise divided about how the government should rule rallied around the value of government accountability. Respondents also voiced overwhelming support for parliamentary input to presidential decision making. These findings underline…

Perceptions matter. People’s views on peace and security shape how they perceive peace processes with real world consequences. More optimistic views on prospects for peace among a population can give people a stake in their political future and help to generate political momentum for transitional processes. Positive perceptions of peace can reduce the attraction of armed groups, increase engagement with peace initiatives, and improve compliance with a transitional framework, both nationally and at a local…

This report summarizes findings of a national survey on perceptions of peace in South Sudan. In August and September 2021, 2,276 respondents were surveyed across 8 primary locations – Aweil, Bentiu, Bor, Juba, Malakal, Pibor, Wau, and Yei – and 25 secondary locations (including IDP settlements and villages outside of these towns). The survey documents how people conceive of peace in their everyday lives and how their experiences shape their views on the peace process…

Against a backdrop of protracted conflict and civil war, South Sudan has experienced a series of stop-start peace processes. Innovative approaches are now needed at national and local level to address the root causes of violence. This report synthesises the findings of the Network for Innovative Resilience-Building in South Sudan. It shows the importance of understanding conflict drivers and focusing on longer-term peace outcomes. Gaps in knowledge, evidence and learning are also identified. Download

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