“There is significant recognition within UNMISS that there is a climate signature in the way the conflict pattern is evolving” - Johnson Nkem, Climate, Peace and Security Advisor (CPSA), UNMISS.
This video highlights the United Nations efforts in South Sudan, where climate change-related extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, are exacerbating local conflict dynamics, displacing communities, eroding livelihoods and increasing competition for limited resources. It includes interviews with communities, government, UN agencies and the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
South Sudan is among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. Assessing the impact of climate-related risks on conflict dynamics is a crucial aspect of UNMISS efforts to address key drivers of conflict. Through an integrated approach with the UN Country Team, the peacekeeping mission also works with local partners to strengthen institutional capacities and facilitate community dialogue to mitigate climate-related risks of conflicts. Integrating climate, peace and security (CPS) analysis into peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts provides avenues for building sustainable and lasting peace.
Following unprecedented flooding in 2024 – which affected approximately 1.4 million people across South Sudan and displaced over 380,000 people1 – the Climate, Peace and Security Advisor and his team have been engaged in providing a wide range of support, including analysis and early warning of climate-related risks. With severe levels of flooding anticipated again in 2025, this dedicated expertise is essential for the mission’s response effectiveness.
Since 2021, the UNMISS mandate has recognised the adverse effects of climate change on stability and the humanitarian situation in South Sudan. It urges support to national authorities, regular reporting and integration of climate risks into implementation of its protection of civilians mandate. The latest UNMISS Resolution of 8 May 2025 highlights the importance of providing gender-sensitive risk assessments on the adverse effects of climate change and commends the activities of the peacekeepers to assist flood-affected communities.