The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) [official website] on Wednesday expressed concern [press release] for growing violence in South Sudan in recent weeks [JURIST report]. The mission found that the violence is contributing to growing deaths and displacement among civilians as government and opposition forces collide. Among the reports of violence is one instance where unidentified, armed men attacked civilian convoys, which included women and children, killing five. Despite reports, UNMISS has yet to acquire access to the areas, but is currently in talks with the necessary government agencies to eliminate any restrictions to access. UNMISS condemned the violence and called on all parties to cease attacks and ensure that commanders control their forces and protect civilians and their property.

The Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) criticized [JURIST Report ] UN peacekeepers in South Sudan last Wednesday for their failure to protect civilians during an outbreak of fighting in the country that took place in July. South Sudanese officials have said the country will take legal action [JURIST report] against the Sentry, a US-based advocacy group, after a report published by the group accused the nation’s leaders of profiting from country’s violent three-year conflict.