Ambassador Michael J. Adler speaks during the commemoration of IOM's 10-year Anniversary of Rapid Response Fund. November 2023. (Photo: Awan Moses/Eye Radio).

The United States Ambassador to South Sudan on Monday called on the transitional government to prioritize ending Gender-Based Violence, adding that Washington stands with those protecting the human rights of women and girls in the country.

In a statement emailed to Eye Radio, the Mission reiterated support for policymakers and people committed to accelerating the achievement of gender equality.

This was on the occasion of the 16 days of international campaign against Gender Based Violence that South Sudan is currently commemorating.

Ambassador Michael J. Adler said the mission said it strongly backs efforts to end the vice in South Sudan, as it commemorates the 31st anniversary of anti-GBV activism in the country.

Envoy Adler called on the transitional government to hold accountable perpetrators of GBV and take necessary steps to create an environment in which GBV is eliminated.

“This requires concrete changes that will improve education, health, and security, and include the goal of eliminating GBV into the central mission and value system of South Sudan’s security forces,” Adler said.

“We stand with those committed to protecting the human rights of women and girls in South Sudan.  We stand with those committed to accelerating the achievement of gender equality.”