Dialogue for Sustainable Peace and National Unity in South Sudan

To leverage this process, UNESCO's Social and Human Sciences Sector organized a National Policy Dialogue for government officials, civil society representatives, youth leaders, and educators in Juba, South Sudan, on 17 and 18 July 2024. In collaboration with the South Sudanese government and local organizations. In the context of South Sudan's ongoing efforts to build national cohesion, the dialogue marks a significant step towards addressing the country's complex challenges through fostering national unity and community engagement.

Sylvana Lewin

Through dialogue-based program with active engagement of community leaders, South Sudan can begin to break the cycle of violence.

Mr. Kenneth Ganna-Conteh, Search for Common Ground, international peacebuilding non-profit

At the national level, it has become crucial to address ethnic divisions, economic instability, and education disruptions. To reach this goal, the significance of promoting intergenerational dialogue, enhancing intercultural competencies, and developing initiatives that foster social cohesion, was emphasized. Involvement of youth in this process is critical, with calls raised to pass the drafted youth development policy as well as ensure capacity building and platforming of youth. The importance of localisation of processes through the involvement of local organizations and grassroots efforts was also highlighted, with participants noting the need to strengthen coordination efforts and capacity of existing structures.

Sylvana Lewin

Youth must be given the opportunity to participate and consolidate their role in the peace process and stability in South Sudan.

Mr. Stanslaus Lowala, Ministry for Youth and Sports

Key speakers at the event included Hon. Pia Philip Michael, Undersecretary of the South Sudanese Ministry of Peacebuilding; Mr Stanslaus Luwala, Director of Youth Training in the Ministry of Youth and Sports; and Ms Jenifa Jopute, Executive Director of Culture Trend Network.

UNESCO is committed to continuing its collaboration with the South Sudanese government and local stakeholders. The National Dialogue in Juba will inform a new project proposal based on intercultural dialogue to support the process of peace-buildingin South Sudan.

UNESCO remains dedicated to evolving strategies that meet the dynamic needs of the country in its pursuit of sustainable development peace and national unity.

Hotel Staff