Republic of South Sudan

South Sudan is one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, and violent conflict continues to occur. The United Nations plays an important role in the protection of civilians, peace-making and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid. UNMISS was established in 2011 to consolidate peace and security and enable the newly-established Government of South Sudan to assume its functions. The mandate of the mission has since shifted to focus on the protection of civilians. Prior to South Sudan’s independence and the creation of UNMISS; New Zealand contributed personnel to the United Nations Mission in Sudan from 2005 to 2011. Our participation in UNMISS contributes to our collective security responsibilities, addresses humanitarian concerns, and provides a small but tangible demonstration of New Zealand’s commitment to peace and security in Africa.

The New Zealand Defence Force currently contributes three personnel to UNMISS, including the Deputy Chief of Plans, and two Military Liaison Officers. The Deputy Chief of Plans is based in the capital Juba, and the Military Liaison Officers are based in the regions on an as required basis.

The mandate for this deployment expires on 30 September 2024. 

For more information about UNMISS go to: https://unmiss.unmissions.org(external link) (external link).

Copies of Cabinet papers and the associated minutes of decision regarding the contribution are linked in the Deployment Articles section below.