Based on case studies in Wau, Yambio, and Juba, this paper explores how South Sudanese use cultural practices for self-protection, early warning, and conflict preparedness, and the related psychological implications. The report finds several cultural practices and beliefs used for conflict prevention and protection against a wide range of threats, with symbols, rituals, and objects. With the increase in the use of cultural practices related to ongoing violence, the paper suggests that external actors should…
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CSRF Research Repository
The CSRF Research Repository aims to support greater contextual knowledge for policy makers, programme managers, and implementers by providing a searchable repository of research, analysis, and resources, and providing periodic updates on new research and analysis.
This article examines the intersection between chiefs’ courts and peacebuilding in South Sudan. The report found that the role of chiefs in addressing disputes and food shortages is key in enhancing peacebuilding opportunities amid challenges, including neglect, ambiguity, elite capture, and the limited power of traditional authority. The article outlines how international aid partners can integrate community-led peacebuilding initiatives into international peacebuilding approaches to foster lasting peace in the country. Read more here
This briefing paper focuses on the politics of violence in South Sudan. It examines the factors that led to the delay of the December 2024 elections among other development in the country. Looking at the role of Tumaini Peace in the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the effects of the war in Sudan on politics in Juba and the violence occurring across the country, the paper finds the…
This report examines the application of pathway approaches to climate adaptation in conflict-affected and development contexts, such as Lebanon and South Sudan. The report found that the application of pathways for intervention design and implementation is quite limited. This report recommends the use of the decision pathway among humanitarian, security, and development stakeholders to design a long-term response to the challenges of climate, conflict, and displacement. Read more here
Through the case study of Juba City, this report assesses the perceptions of basic service delivery among displaced persons, returnees, refugees, and host communities. The report found varied perceptions among these groups. While all the groups considered security as their top priority, they differed in other services, with the host and IDPs ranking transportation as their top priorities, and IDPs and returnees opting for parks. The report suggests that humanitarian agencies should collaborate with city…
This article examines the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development’s (GAD’s) mediation in South Sudan. Focusing on the elements of liberal peace and alternative rationalised approaches, the article identifies discrepancies between the two approaches in IGAD’s mediation strategies. It also provides recommendations on how Africa’s regional bodies and mechanisms, such as IGAD, can re-evaluate its peace theory and practice, including considerations on the effectiveness of the declining liberal peace paradigm. Read more here
Focusing on body marks among Murle youth, this article explores the meanings that Murle youth attribute to them. The article finds that Murle youth associate body marks, depicting assault rifles, army ranks, mobile phones, UN acronyms, with urban and military culture. The article provides insights on how the meanings attached to body marks represents Murle’s quest for modernity and power. Read more here
Due to recent history of war, civil strife, extreme poverty and unrest, detailed studies on the impact of climate change in South Sudan are scarce. Focusing on the fisheries in the Sudd region of South Sudan, this article aims at informing on the impact that the substantially warmer and drier weather has had on their work. The research included direct data collection among fishers and agro-pastoralists, across 28 villages in upper Sudd, to identify both…
Drawing on quantitative and qualitative data from Uganda and South Sudan, this article considers return movements of refugees to uncover underlying causes. The study found that due to a number of factors, including gradual aid reductions, lack of livelihood opportunities in Uganda and severe hardship, South Sudanese refugees travel back to their homeland in hope of being able to financially support their relatives who remain in Uganda. The article argues that this phenomenon of returns…
This article discusses the different trajectories of a once-united Zande people and their respective positions in the nation-states of South Sudan and the Central African Republic (CAR). The report argues that unlike Azande in CAR, Azande in South Sudan have emerged as a formidable and united force, partly due to the independence of South Sudan and the violence inflicted on them by Uganda’s Lord Resistance Army, resulting in the reinstatement of their fallen kingdom. The…
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