South Sudan: Funding Gaps Threaten Nearly 2 Million Displaced People
Funding shortfalls are endangering the lives of almost 2 million displaced persons in South Sudan due to increasing humanitarian needs.
In South Sudan, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has raised alarms regarding the precarious situation of over 1.9 million displaced individuals, indicating that funding shortfalls could severely impact their lives. As the country continues to grapple with one of the largest displacement crises globally, nearly 10 million people require humanitarian help, including many returnees fleeing conflicts in the neighboring Sudan.
The IOM has highlighted the urgent need for funds, specifying that it requires just over $131 million for its operational costs in South Sudan this year but is facing a significant shortfall of $29 million. This financial gap raises concerns about the continuity of much-needed assistance for those who have been uprooted, as well as the broader implications for stability in the region. The report emphasizes the critical nature of support to ensure effective protection and assistance for displaced persons.
Furthermore, the IOM is collaborating with partners to implement government-led solutions under the UN Secretary-General's Action Agenda on Internal Displacement. This agenda aims to provide robust mechanisms not only for protecting displaced individuals but also for preventing new crises from arising. The sustained lack of funding exacerbates the challenges faced by a nation already under strain, thus necessitating immediate international attention and support to mitigate these humanitarian crises.