When did South Sudan civil war start? This question remains a pivotal point in understanding the history and complexities of the young nation of South Sudan. The conflict, which has had a profound impact on the lives of millions, began on December 15, 2013.
The roots of the South Sudan civil war can be traced back to the long-running conflict between the Sudanese government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) during the Second Sudanese Civil War. This war, which lasted from 1983 to 2005, resulted in the loss of millions of lives and the displacement of countless others. Despite the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in 2005, which brought an end to the civil war, underlying tensions and rivalries between different ethnic groups and political factions persisted.
The 2013 conflict erupted when President Salva Kiir accused his former vice president, Riek Machar, of attempting a coup. This event marked the beginning of a brutal civil war that pitted the government forces loyal to Kiir against the rebels led by Machar. The conflict quickly escalated into a full-scale war, with numerous other ethnic and political groups joining the fray.
The war has been characterized by widespread human rights abuses, including mass killings, ethnic cleansing, and the use of child soldiers. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has indicted several high-ranking officials for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Despite numerous peace agreements and ceasefires, the conflict has continued to rage on, with devastating consequences for the South Sudanese people.
The South Sudan civil war has had a profound impact on the country’s economy, infrastructure, and social fabric. The war has led to the displacement of millions of people, both within the country and as refugees in neighboring countries. The United Nations estimates that more than 4 million South Sudanese have been displaced, making it one of the largest displacement crises in the world.
The international community has been heavily involved in attempting to mediate the conflict, with various peace initiatives and diplomatic efforts being undertaken. The African Union, the United Nations, and other regional and international actors have all played a role in trying to bring an end to the violence.
In conclusion, the South Sudan civil war started on December 15, 2013, and has since become one of the most tragic and complex conflicts of the 21st century. The war has left a lasting scar on the young nation, with its people enduring immense suffering and loss. As the conflict continues, the international community remains hopeful that a lasting peace can be achieved and that South Sudan can finally move towards stability and prosperity.
