Statement on the Abduction of Aid Workers in South Sudan

News story | Date: 12/09/2025 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Statement by Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust on the increase in abductions of aid workers in South Sudan.

'I am deeply concerned about the growing unrest in South Sudan, where several aid workers have been abducted. It is completely unacceptable that humanitarian personnel, working under extremely challenging conditions to save lives and alleviate suffering, are being targeted in this way', said Minister of International Development Åsmund Aukrust.

So far this year, more than 30 aid workers have been abducted in South Sudan, twice as many as last year. This underscores the seriousness of the situation. It is a deeply troubling development that affects an already severely impacted population', said Aukrust.

I urge all parties to exercise restraint, respect international humanitarian law, and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation of violence. Aid workers must be protected, this is a fundamental principle of international law and a prerequisite for reaching the most vulnerable, said Aukrust.

The authorities have a duty to protect South Sudan's civilian population and ensure unhindered access for humanitarian actors, said Aukrust.'