This policy brief explores the state and role of civil society and community-based organisations and faith-based organisations in peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan following the outbreak of violent conflict that began in December 2013. A key reason for the limited engagement of CSOs/CBOs specifically was the reluctance of the warring parties to include other stakeholders in peace talks. Indeed, in the peace efforts to resolve the violent conflict, the CSOs were only allowed to participate following significant pressure from regional and Western bodies. Also, the weakness of the CSOs and faith-based organizations has worked against their full engagement.
This briefing also suggests possible actions to enhance their roles include increasing pressure on the warring parties and building capacities of these organizations through sustained funding and training.
