A wide spectrum of stakeholders commemorating International Day of Peace in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, has committed to work together to infuse fresh momentum in the peace process with a resolute call for peace partners to stop conflict and promote human rights so that the trauma and scars of past civil wars can be healed.

Commemorated on 21 September annually, this year’s Peace Day was especially significant for the world’s youngest nation as it slowly begins recovering from prolonged internecine strife and the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the spirit of recovery and reconciliation, The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) helped sponsor a panel discussion to mark the Day, drawing panelists from various universities across Juba, the South Sudan Peace Commission and the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sports.

Speaking at the event, Sharon Lowery, a Human Rights Officer with the UN Peacekeeping mission stated that this year’s country-specific theme ‘Building Equitable and Sustainable Peace,’ is achievable only if all partners work seamlessly as a team to bring an end to human rights violations, recurrent ambushes on major trade routes and economic hardships, among other challenges.

“Killing and injuries, sexually-motivated violence and the ensuing stigma or discrimination, underage or forced marriages, recruitment of child soldiers and attacks on schools and places of worship, are some of the major human rights concerns that must stop,” stated Ms. Lowery.

Choul Ranbhang, Chairman, of the South Sudan Peace Commission, agreed. He also urged young people to avoid being grouped into factions along ethnic or regional lines as this often leads to conflict which could, otherwise, be avoided.

“I encourage young people to shun interethnic divisions; engage yourselves in peace initiatives so that whatever you speak about, sing about or debate upon will advance messages of reconciliation, peace and healing to everbody,” he said.

Ajonye Pepetua, Chair of the South Sudan Law Society highlighted that frustration abounds if abuses and violations are committed with impunity.