Killings and injuries of civilians in South Sudan decreased in the last quarter, but abductions and sexual violence increased, according to a new United Nations report released Friday.
The U.N. Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) says it has documented 295 incidents of conflict-related violence from July to September 2025, impacting 1,153 civilians. Among them, 519 people were killed, 396 injured, 159 abducted and 79 subjected to conflict-related sexual violence.
The figures represent a 12% decrease in incidents and a 24% drop in total victims compared to the previous quarter. Civilian killings fell by 18% and injuries by 41%.
However, the report raised alarm over a 20% increase in abductions and a 7% rise in cases of sexual violence compared to the April-June period.
The report said armed hostilities persist among conventional parties and other armed groups, with fighting concentrated in Central Equatoria, Jonglei, Unity, Upper Nile, Western Bahr el Ghazal and Western Equatoria states.
“While the decline in casualties this quarter offers a measure of hope, the increase in abductions and sexual violence, and persistent armed hostilities are unacceptable,” said Anita Kiki Gbeho, the mission’s officer-in-charge.
She called on all parties to respect international law and protect civilians.
The mission said forced displacement from ongoing violence continues to undermine peace efforts and exposes civilians, particularly women and children, to heightened risks.
UNMISS said it continues to work with authorities and communities to strengthen civilian protection and support peace efforts.