South Sudan Vice President Addresses UNGA on Peace, Development, and Global Challenges

South Sudan's Journey and Peace Agreement

• 🇸🇸 South Sudan, the world's youngest nation, gained independence in 2011 after a long liberation struggle.
• 🕊️ A revitalized peace agreement signed in 2018 led to the formation of a transitional government, with implementation progressing at approximately 60%.
• ⚖️ The agreement includes provisions for governance, security sector reform, transitional justice, and economic reforms, with a commitment to 35% women representation.
• 🗓️ Preparations are underway for general elections scheduled for December 2026.

Climate Change and Sustainable Development

• 🌍 Despite minimal contribution to global emissions, South Sudan is severely impacted by climate change, facing floods and droughts.
• 💧 The nation calls for equitable climate financing, technology transfer, and foreign direct investment to address development and environmental stability.
• 🌱 South Sudan is committed to planting 100 million trees by 2030 and expanding renewable energy.
• 📈 The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are aligned with national priorities, with progress noted in agricultural transformation and food security.

Health, Education, and Youth Empowerment

• 🏥 Efforts are being made to improve healthcare infrastructure, maternal and child care, and achieve universal health care.
• 📚 Significant progress has been made in education, with primary school enrollment rising from 300,000 to 2.1 million, though 2.8 million children remain out of school.
• 🎓 South Sudan is investing in technical and vocational skills training for women and youth, appreciating scholarship support.
• 🚀 With over 60% of the population under 30, youth empowerment is a key focus, highlighted by the nation's participation in the Paris Olympics.

Gender Equality and Human Rights

• 👩‍⚖️ South Sudan has integrated gender equality into its governance, with 30% female representation in cabinets and the National Transitional Assembly speaker being female.
• ⚖️ New legislation and a special court are being established to address gender-based violence.
• 🤝 The government is committed to promoting and protecting human rights, strengthening national institutions, and empowering women, youth, and people with disabilities.

Regional Stability and Global Partnerships

• 🤝 South Sudan advocates for African representation in the UN Security Council and the removal of sanctions and arms embargoes.
• 🇸🇩 The nation is working to resolve outstanding issues with Sudan, including border demarcation and the status of Abyei.
• 📈 South Sudan is transitioning from humanitarian aid to development aid, seeking international support for its immense potential and young population.
• 🌍 The Vice President reaffirms South Sudan's commitment to multilateral solidarity and partnership for a fairer, safer, and more prosperous world.