The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is deeply alarmed by the escalation of violence in Jonglei State, South Sudan, and the grave impact it is having on women and girls.
As of mid-February at least 11 health facilities in Jonglei State have been closed, looted, or destroyed, and ambulances and equipment have been seized in the fighting. As maternity and emergency obstetric and newborn care services shut down, women are forced to give birth without skilled attendance.
More than 370,000 people have been forced from their homes by fighting since the beginning of this year, including 280,000 in Jonglei State alone. In addition to severe hunger and the risk of cholera, displaced women and girls are experiencing a mounting risk of gender-based violence as they are cut off from their communities and protection services break down, interrupting critical pathways to care.
We echo the urgent call of the Humanitarian Coordinator in South Sudan for the immediate protection of civilians and critical civilian infrastructure; and for unfettered humanitarian access to all communities in need. These fundamental principles are essential to uphold human dignity and to ensure that lifesaving assistance reaches those who are most affected.
UNFPA stands in solidarity with the people of South Sudan, and reaffirms its commitment to working with the Government, United Nations partners, and humanitarian communities to protect lives, uphold rights, and respond to the urgent needs of women, girls, and their families throughout this crisis.
