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Participant feedback on improving Justice Outcomes for Conflict Related Sexual Violence (CRSV) Survivors in South Sudan:
Participants appreciated the safe and open environment provided for discussion. Many expressed that this was their first time receiving clear information about court procedures and survivor rights.

One participant stated: “Before this training, I thought going to court was only for rich people. Now I understand that justice is my right, and I can report if I am abused.”

Another added: “Learning about stigma helped me realize that keeping silent helps perpetrators. We will speak out and support other women to do the same.”

Another spoke up: “I’m so happy about what we have learnt today, many of our young girls in the community don’t come out to report because we as the elders will put the blames on her instead of helping and supporting them.”

South Sudan’s Judiciary, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched a mobile court Tuesday at Juba National Prison to expedite gender-based violence cases and reduce severe overcrowding. The court is a direct response to what the country’s chief justice called an “overwhelming and inhuman” situation during a visit to the facility. William Kaya Pacifico, Director of Training in the Judiciary, said the chief justice described the conditions as “a shame on the judiciary.” “That is why he has taken it as his first priority,” Kaya said at the launch ceremony. The initiative aims to clear a backlog of 129 prioritized cases involving GBV and juveniles by assigning four judges temporary high court powers. It seeks to address lengthy pre-trial detentions that contribute to prison congestion. Catherine Walaiula, a technical advisor for UNDP in South Sudan, described the court as a “milestone in advancing justice, protecting human rights, and promoting gender equality.” She said it provides a dedicated forum for swift and sensitive adjudication. GBV remains one of South Sudan’s most pressing human rights challenges, with survivors often facing stigma, delays and systemic barriers to justice. Justice Malou Yel Akok, President of the Court of Appeal for the Greater Equatoria Circuit, urged judges and lawyers to avoid unnecessary postponements. “We don’t need delays… we want to see that more than half or three quarters of cases are settled,” he said.

The education and awareness session for survivor networks in Bentiu successfully enhanced survivors’ knowledge and confidence in navigating the justice system. It also helped demystify legal processes and encouraged collective efforts to challenge stigma in communities. Sustained engagement, capacity-building, and follow-up mentorship will be vital to empower survivors as active participants in promoting justice, equality, and accountability in South Sudan.