By Guya Scopas Bethuel
The European Union raised concerns that South Sudan has remained a hotbed for human trafficking, stating that the volatile situation in the nation, combined with endemic poverty and weak governance, leaves the population vulnerable to trafficking and exploitation.
Jaske Lothar, the acting head of the EU Delegation to South Sudan, drew attention to the impact of modern-day slavery that enslaved women, children, and displaced people bear in South Sudan while attending the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons event that was held in Juba.
Jaske quoted, “Trafficking in persons is one of the most heinous crimes of our time. It strips individuals of their dignity and freedom.” He went on to say that every nation, including South Sudan, is susceptible to the calamities of human trafficking due to rampant, unceasing warfare, unending migrations, and abject poverty.
Some of the most unsettling observations were the rampant recruiting of children into military factions, forced early marriages branded as cultural customs, sexual exploitation, and forced labor in the agriculture and construction industries.
The South Sudanese government has made some headway, including the establishment and legalization of one of the country’s first Anti Human Trafficking and Smuggling of Migrants Bill in 2022, and the efforts to draft a National Action Plan in collaboration with civil society and international agencies.
Jaschke made positive remarks too, speaking of the country’s accession to international protocols and conventions. “But challenges remain—especially in law enforcement, victim protection, and community awareness,” added Jaschke.
The EU diplomat added strategic gaps of weak institutional capacity, inadequate victim support, data collection, and monitoring to inform policies. Also, he called upon the authorities to involve traditional and religious leaders in combating some of the retrogressive cultural norms of child marriage and dowry-induced abuses.
Jaschke reminded the audience of the EU’s unrelenting dedication to the matter with the explanation of the Better Migration Management program and support of the Regional Operational Centre (ROCK), which improves cooperation to dismantle trafficking networks.
To further highlight the seriousness of these issues, he added, “The EU works hand-in-hand with UN agencies, civil society, and local communities to support education, economic opportunity, and the empowerment of women and youth, essential tools in preventing trafficking before it happens.”
Closing the discussion, Jaschke said he wanted his audience to remember the message of hope and the fact that lasting peace and inclusive development are the building blocks to eliminating human trafficking.
“South Sudan’s young and resilient population has what it takes to build a democratic, stable future. But the peace agreement must be implemented in full and with sincerity.”