ICRC warns that South Sudan’s escalating violence and funding shortfalls are deepening human suffering, with over 445,000 people displaced and aid stretched to its limits.
JUBA (ICRC) – A surge in fighting across South Sudan has forced more than 445,000 people to flee their homes in 2025, worsening one of the world’s longest-running humanitarian crises. With aid funding dwindling and essential services overstretched, families face mounting hardship and uncertainty, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) said on Tuesday.
The ICRC urged all parties to the conflict, authorities, and donors to act swiftly to prevent further catastrophe. Violence has spread across much of the country, particularly in Upper Nile, Jonglei, Central and Western Equatoria, and Western Bahr el Ghazal, leaving many families displaced multiple times.
“All over the country, civilians bear the brunt of conflicts and violence. They flee, try to rebuild their lives, and are forced to flee again,” said Florence Gillette, ICRC Head of Delegation in South Sudan. “This cycle must end so that communities can recover from years of crisis.”
The impact of climate change has worsened conditions, affecting over 900,000 people, including 300,000 displaced.
“When the fighting started in the village, I ran with my children and never looked back,” said Grace Wani, a mother of four in Yambio.
The ICRC said it has assisted nearly 196,000 displaced people and returnees this year with food, cash, and emergency support in partnership with the South Sudan Red Cross.
“Displaced people will continue to face unbearable conditions unless all parties do everything possible to protect civilians,” Ms Gillette added.