The EU Delegation to South Sudan, together with the embassies of Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, issued a joint statement on 8 July 2026 expressing grave concern over amendments to the 2018 peace agreement passed by the Transitional National Legislative Assembly without full consensus of all signatories. The statement reaffirms that the 2018 peace agreement remains the basis for the legitimacy of the transitional government and calls for any changes to be made through authentic dialogue involving all parties. It also urges all parties to commit to an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The joint statement, published by the Press and information team of the EU Delegation to South Sudan, underscores international alarm at the unilateral legislative move, which risks undermining the fragile peace process. The signatories stress that the legitimacy of the transitional government hinges on adherence to the original accord, and that amendments adopted without broad agreement could destabilise the country. The call for a ceasefire reflects ongoing concerns about violence in South Sudan, where implementation of the 2018 pact has been slow and sporadic.
The statement does not specify which amendments were passed or detail potential consequences for non-compliance. It serves as a diplomatic warning to South Sudan's leaders that the international community expects inclusive decision-making and respect for the peace framework. The EU and partner embassies have previously supported peace implementation through funding and technical assistance, and this joint position signals continued scrutiny of political developments in Juba.