Funding Shortfall Puts Over 1.9 Million Displaced People in South Sudan at Risk, UN Agency Warns

Kathmandu. The lives of over 1.9 million displaced people in South Sudan are at risk due to a lack of funding for aid, the United Nations agency for migrant affairs stated on Wednesday.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said that humanitarian needs in South Sudan, one of the world's most displacement-affected countries, are dramatically outstripping resources.

“Significant funding shortfalls are putting the lives of over 1.9 million displaced persons in South Sudan at risk,” the IOM informed in a statement.

South Sudan, the world's newest sovereign nation established in 2011, has been plagued by civil war, poverty, and widespread corruption.

IOM stated that South Sudan, already grappling with internal displacement due to years of conflict, floods, and instability, is also struggling to manage the influx of new arrivals fleeing conflict in neighboring Sudan.

IOM said, “More than 1.3 million people have entered South Sudan since the war began in Sudan in April 2023.”

IOM stated this has created a ‘huge pressure’ on border communities, the country's overstretched services, and weak infrastructure.

“South Sudan is carrying an extraordinary burden, and the lack of funding risks undermining progress towards sustainable solutions for millions,” said IOM Deputy Director General for Projects, Ugochi Daniel.

He added, “Displaced families and host communities are trying to rebuild their lives, but there is real tension here. Without continued support and progress towards peace, these communities could face new instability and displacement.”

IOM stated that the $2.9 million allocated for its 2026 response plan is far too little.

The United States, historically the largest contributor to the United Nations, has cut its foreign aid fund since President Donald Trump returned to power in January 2025. Other countries have also tightened the limits on their contributions.

According to the United Nations, violence has recently escalated in South Sudan between supporters of President Salva Kiir and his long-time rival Riek Machar – much of it centered in Jonglei State where at least 280,000 people have been displaced.

The conflict has incited two major ethnic groups against each other. The Dinka community is often closely aligned with Kiir, while the Nuer frequently cooperate with Machar.