EU, UNDP sign Partnership agreement to support Enabling Environment for South Sudan's Elections

(© EUDSSD)

 

The European Union Delegation to South Sudan and UNDP South Sudan today signed an agreement of 3 million Euros, (US $3,281,400) towards supporting an enabling environment for elections in the new nation. Implemented by UNDP, the project will strengthen national institutions, platforms and processes for credible, peaceful and inclusive electoral processes.

Elections are an integral part of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and the corresponding Roadmap envisages elections to be held in December 2024. These elections should mark an end to the transition phase and represent a move towards strengthening democracy, good governance, and development.

According to the European Union Ambassador to South Sudan, Timo Olkkonen, having an election in itself is not enough without an environment that fosters trust and acceptance of its results and the meaningful participation of citizens in the process.

“This requires a holistic approach that includes respect for human rights, equality and inclusiveness of participation, access to information, appropriate legislative frameworks and independent institutions. Security is paramount to create a conducive context in which the electoral process can take place,” Ambassador Olkkonen said during a press conference in Juba today.

Speaking at the same event Mr. Titus Osundina, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative said: “UNDP’s partnership with the European Union is incredibly important as it allows us to provide support for an enabling environment that sets the foundation for credible, inclusive and peaceful elections. UNDP is partnering with UNMISS, UNESCO and UN Women to deliver this support in a holistic and integrated manner.”

The Secretary General of South Sudan's National Electoral Commission (NEC) Mr. Yoannes Amum Nyiker also witnessed the signing of this partnership agreement at the European Union Delegation Conference Hall.

The project will strengthen NEC, Political Parties Council (PPC) as well as the judiciary, media and police in their electoral-related roles. Civil society including women, youth, persons living with disabilities and under-represented groups will be supported to engage in electoral processes. There will be support for the development of the electoral legal framework, election dispute resolution, broad and inclusive civic and voter education, human rights monitoring during the elections, election security and conflict mitigation.