The United Nations Mission in South Sudan works to protect civilians, facilitate the safe delivery of humanitarian aid, protect and promote human rights, and build durable peace.
Civilian and uniformed peacekeepers from at least 75 different countries carry out diverse duties under a mandate determined by the United Nations Security Council, including:
Protection of Civilians
While the Government of South Sudan is primarily responsible for protecting civilians, peacekeepers actively patrol in communities across the country to provide a protective presence and deter violence. A particular focus is protecting women and children, preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence, and fostering a secure environment for the safe, voluntary and dignified return, relocation or integration of displaced people and refugees. The mission also supports efforts to prevent and resolve conflict through community-led peace processes.
Creating conditions conducive to the delivery of humanitarian assistance
Peacekeepers help create a secure environment to enable the safe, timely and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to millions of people in need across the country.
Supporting the implementation of the revitalized agreement and the peace process
As an impartial partner, UNMISS supports the peace process and the implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement. The mission assists the parties to ensure the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women, civil society, youth and other marginalized groups in political, governance, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding efforts. The mission also provides technical assistance, advice and capacity building to strengthen rule of law and support preparations for elections.
Monitoring and investigating human rights
UNMISS monitors, investigates, verifies and reports on violations and abuses of international human rights and humanitarian law, including those that may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity. Incidents of hate speech and incitement to violence are also investigated. Technical support is provided to other mechanisms investigating and reporting on violations and abuses.