The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has renewed key sanctions against South Sudan, extending an arms embargo alongside targeted travel bans and asset freezes on designated individuals and entities until May 31, 2026.
The renewal came through Resolution 2781, adopted with nine votes in favour and six abstentions.
The resolution not only continues the sanctions but also extends the mandate of the UN Panel of Experts, which supports the South Sudan Sanctions Committee, until July 1, 2026.
This panel plays a crucial role in monitoring compliance and assessing the impact of the measures.
Among the abstentions were African Security Council members Algeria, Sierra Leone, and Somalia, as well as China, Pakistan, and Russia.
These countries chose not to oppose the resolution but refrained from endorsing it.
Resolution 2781 reiterates the Security Council’s willingness to adjust the arms embargo depending on the progress South Sudan makes towards peace and stability.
The Council expressed readiness to modify, suspend, or gradually lift sanctions if key benchmarks, initially established in Resolution 2577 (2021), are met.
The resolution also mandates continuous review of the targeted measures, showing the Council’s flexibility to strengthen or ease sanctions in response to evolving conditions on the ground.
Monitoring & Reporting Requirements
The resolution requires the UN Secretary-General to conduct an assessment of progress by April 15, 2026.
The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the Panel of Experts will closely consult to carry out this evaluation.
South Sudanese authorities must also submit a detailed report to the Sanctions Committee by the same date, outlining their progress toward meeting the benchmarks.
These sanctions form part of the international community’s efforts to support South Sudan’s transition from conflict to peace.
Despite ongoing challenges, the UN remains engaged in encouraging reforms, disarmament, and governance improvements.
The renewal of sanctions underscores the Security Council’s commitment to maintaining pressure on those undermining peace and stability while supporting positive developments.
As South Sudan continues its fragile peace process, the extended sanctions and oversight mechanism aim to create a framework that incentivises progress.
The coming year will be critical for the country’s authorities to demonstrate tangible improvements in security and governance, which could lead to easing of restrictions in the future.
The Security Council’s resolution sends a clear message: sustained international engagement and accountability remain essential to achieving lasting peace in South Sudan.
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