EFFECTIVENESS OF THE UNITED NATIONS MISSION IN SOUTH SUDAN’S PEACE-BUILDING STRATEGIES IN SOUTH SUDAN

Abstract

Peace Support Operations (PSOs) aim to create and maintain conditions for lasting peace by reducing tensions, supporting ceasefires, and establishing buffer zones between antagonistic parties. The UN and AU have conducted PSOs for the past 50 years in conflict zones worldwide since 1948, with their roles and functions adapting to specific mandates and situations. South Sudan, established as a new country in 2011 after almost four decades of civil war, plunged into severe conflict in late 2013. This turmoil arose from a political dispute escalating into violence, exacerbating pre existing ethnic and political tensions. Civilians bore the brunt of this conflict, becoming victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity. One strategy to mitigate these tensions and foster sustainable peace is to support a ceasefire and establish a buffer zone. The substantial cost of PSOs and peace-building efforts underscores the importance of enhancing the effectiveness of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in peace-building. This includes identifying gaps from past failures and developing strategies to improve political and economic prosperity in the country. The study took eight months, covering the year 2011 to 2022, and generally investigated the effectiveness of UNMISS in building peace in South Sudan. The specific objectives were: to examine the nature of United Nations peace missions, to evaluate United Nations peace-building strategies, and to assess the challenges and opportunities in UNMISS and peace-building efforts in South Sudan. Literature review was done thematically, and the study was further underpinned by two theories, Liberalism theory and conflict transformation theory, bolstered by a conceptual model. The study employed a descriptive survey design with a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods. It was conducted in five identified regions in South Sudan and Nairobi, utilizing resource persons and key informants. The study population consisted of 3280 individuals, including military peacekeepers, UN police, state and local administrators, and local community leaders and employed cluster, purposive, stratified, and systematic sampling. Primary data collection involved questionnaires and interviews with 290 respondents, supplemented by a purposively identified focus group discussion. Secondary data was sourced from publications. Both quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 28 and thematic excerpts, respectively. Reliability and validity were ensured through pre-tests and Cronbach Alpha Coefficient (CAC) analysis. The findings were presented using charts, graphs, frequencies, and excerpts. The study findings assessed various key objectives, including reducing violence and conflict, improved security, enhanced social cohesion, increased political stability, and protection of civilians and human rights. Additionally, the study demonstrated the impact of key strategies such as DDR programs, security sector reforms, economic development, social and cultural initiatives, dialogue and negotiation, rule of law and human rights strategies, and community engagement. The research pinpointed critical challenges, such as inadequate funding, the security landscape, political instability, and adherence to international and regional laws and underscored significant opportunities, including gender mainstreaming, conflict prevention and recovery, and international and regional cooperation. The study recommends increased funding from the United Nations and bolstering SSR and DDR programs. The findings offer valuable insights and stand to benefit policymakers in the military, police, and civilian sectors.