South Sudanese Women in Security Call for Greater Representation and Equality, Urging Leadership to Address Discrimination

Juba – On Friday, Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), voiced pressing concerns regarding the representation and treatment of women in South Sudan’s security sector during an interaction with members of the South Sudan Women’s Security Sector Network.

The gathering, centered on the implementation of Chapter 2 of the peace agreement, served as a platform for South Sudanese women in uniform to express their challenges and aspirations. Mr. Yakani described the discussions as “fruitful, motivating, and encouraging,” yet highlighted the stark realities of institutional discrimination faced by women in security roles.

He noted that despite an increasing presence of women in the security environment, significant disparities persist. For instance, Mr. Yakani pointed out that all state police commissioners are men, with no women holding these positions. “The structures within the Ministry of Interior are overwhelmingly male-dominated, and this trend is echoed across defense and national security institutions,” he stated.

The Executive Director called for an urgent need to embrace a minimum representation of 35% women in leadership roles within security establishments. He emphasized, “We must ensure that our leadership meetings reflect this representation at a minimum. Affirmative action should not just exist on paper; it needs to be actively practiced in deployments and promotions.”

Mr. Yakani further underscored that female personnel at senior levels do not receive the same privileges as their male counterparts, affecting their mobility, welfare, and overall treatment within the security apparatus. “This discriminatory practice must be addressed. Women in uniform deserve equal treatment and recognition for their contributions to the security and defense sector,” he urged.

He concluded his address with a poignant appeal to the nation’s leadership, including President Salva Kiir and other high-ranking officials, asking for their support and commitment to reform. “We want to see women marching side by side with men in the security and defense sector,” he insisted.

The call for action comes as South Sudan continues to navigate the complexities of building a more inclusive society, where women can equally participate in safeguarding the nation and contribute to peace and stability. As discussions unfold, the voices of women in security remain crucial in shaping policies that promote gender equity and institutional reform.