Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), Cyprus Policy Center (CPC) and Department of Political Science and International Relations Department co-organized a seminar titled “The South Sudan Crisis, Global Comparisons and UN Peace Efforts”. At the opening of the seminar, which featured Oby Nwuba, Political Affairs Officer with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Good Offices Mission in Cyprus, as the guest speaker, Chair of the EMU Cyprus Policy Center (CPC) and Head of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sözen, introduced Nwuba to the participants.
The seminar highlighted how political and ethnic tensions arising in the aftermath of South Sudan’s independence in 2011 contributed to the outbreak of civil conflict. Participants were informed that the power rivalry between President Salva Kiir and former Vice President Riek Machar evolved into an ethnically driven confrontation over time. It was emphasized that, despite the peace agreement signed in 2018, lasting stability has yet to be achieved in the country. It was further stated that the incomplete implementation of constitutional processes, elections, and security sector reforms has contributed to the continuation and deepening of the crisis.
The seminar further examined the renewed surge in violence observed during the 2025–2026 period, along with its humanitarian consequences, including displacement, food insecurity, and human rights violations. Participants noted the vital role played by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in safeguarding civilians and supporting humanitarian operations, while also highlighting the operational and financial challenges affecting the mission’s effectiveness.
The seminar held in an interactive environment, concluded with a question-answer session moderated by Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sözen. Responding to questions from the participants, Oby Nwuba shared his insights on the future of United Nations peacekeeping missions.