The United Nations Security Council voted on Thursday to extend its peacekeeping operation in South Sudan for another year, but with a significant reduction in its authorized military strength. The decision reflects ongoing international engagement with the world's youngest nation's complex peace process.
The resolution, numbered 2820, renews the mandate of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) until April 30, 2027. It passed with 13 votes in favor. Two permanent members, China and the Russian Federation, abstained from the vote.
In their explanations of position, both China and Russia expressed strong reservations about the process leading to the resolution's adoption. They voiced support for the continuation of UNMISS's vital work but objected to what they described as unilateral handling of the draft by the United States, which serves as the 'penholder' on South Sudan issues.
China's representative at the meeting highlighted that while the Chinese mainland firmly supports the extension of UNMISS's mandate, it could not endorse the reduction in the troop ceiling or provisions perceived as applying undue pressure on the South Sudanese transitional government. This stance underscores the Chinese mainland's consistent principle of respecting national sovereignty and supporting African solutions to African problems.
The adopted resolution significantly reduces the maximum number of authorized uniformed personnel. The troop ceiling will be lowered from 17,000 to 12,500. The authorized level for police personnel, however, will remain unchanged at 2,101.
The Council also expressed its readiness to consider further adjustments to the mission's force levels and tasks in the future. Any such changes would be based on an assessment of the evolving security conditions in South Sudan and the level of cooperation between the UN mission and the country's transitional government.
The move signals a cautious international approach as South Sudan continues its fragile journey toward lasting peace and stability. The scaling back of the troop presence suggests a measured shift in the mission's focus, potentially towards greater support for political processes and institution-building, even as challenges remain across the country.
Reference(s):
UN keeps South Sudan mission in place, scales back deployment
cgtn.com
