During the International Red Crescent Day| Moses Awan

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in South Sudan has honored aid workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and called for the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel amid escalating violence across the country.

Speaking during the World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day commemoration on Friday, the Head of ICRC Delegation in South Sudan, Daniel Bunnskog, said the worsening conflict has continued to cause deaths, displacement, and increased humanitarian needs.

“We are very saddened by this. It has caused loss of life, displacement, adding to all the humanitarian challenges that the people of South Sudan are facing,” he said.

Bunnskog paid tribute to humanitarian workers and volunteers who have died while delivering assistance, including members of the South Sudan Red Cross.

“We honour those who have unfortunately lost their lives, not only in the world but also in South Sudan, as we have seen from our colleagues on the South Sudan Red Cross where they lost a few volunteers last year,” he said.

He said humanitarian staff continue to operate under difficult and dangerous conditions while supporting vulnerable communities across the country.

“We value and treasure the dedication of all the staff and volunteers who sometimes pay a heavy price,” he added.

Bunnskog called for the protection of civilians, civilian infrastructure, and humanitarian workers in line with international humanitarian law.

“It is a moment to remind a very key principle and key rule of international humanitarian law, which is that civilians, civilian infrastructure and humanitarian workers, including all Red Cross and Red Crescent staff and volunteers, must be protected by those carrying weapons,” he said.

He said the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in South Sudan, including the South Sudan Red Cross, ICRC, IFRC, and partner national societies, continues to work together to support affected communities despite ongoing insecurity.

Bunnskog reaffirmed the ICRC’s commitment to working with national authorities and humanitarian partners to address rising needs across South Sudan.