Surge in Kidnappings of Aid Workers in South Sudan Disrupts Humanitarian Efforts
Juba, South Sudan (AP) — Aid workers in South Sudan are being abducted in alarming numbers, with more than 30 kidnappings reported since the start of 2025 — more than double the total recorded last year, humanitarian officials say.
The surge in abductions comes amid intensifying clashes between the national army and opposition groups, creating a dangerous environment for relief agencies already struggling to reach millions affected by conflict, hunger, and flooding.
“The escalation of violence has made humanitarian access increasingly precarious,” said a UN official, warning that staff safety concerns are forcing agencies to scale back operations in some of the hardest-hit regions.
South Sudan, which relies heavily on international assistance, faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with over two-thirds of the population in need of aid. The abductions threaten to further disrupt critical food distributions, medical support, and emergency relief for vulnerable communities.
International organizations have urged all armed groups to guarantee the protection of humanitarian workers, stressing that attacks on aid personnel are violations of international law.
Despite repeated calls for accountability, few perpetrators have been prosecuted, fueling concerns that impunity may embolden further abductions.
