STORY
The UK has voted in favour of renewing the mandate of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, saying the operation remains essential in protecting civilians and supporting humanitarian work amid continuing instability. In a statement to the UN Security Council, UK Deputy Permanent Representative Archie Young said UNMISS played a vital role in protecting civilians, facilitating humanitarian access, monitoring and reporting on human rights, and supporting implementation of the peace agreement in South Sudan.
Britain said it welcomed a renewed mandate that was “credible, deliverable, and responsive to conditions on the ground”, while also repeating its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to inclusive dialogue with the opposition. The UK added that any changes to the Revitalised Agreement should be made through its formal mechanisms rather than by unilateral action, and said it was vital that the mission received full cooperation and freedom of movement from South Sudan’s transitional government.