Information Note: Judiciary of South Sudan launches expedited trials to address SGBV case backlog in Juba

JUBA - The Judiciary of South Sudan (JoSS), with support from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and funding from the Royal Norwegian Embassy, today commenced expedited trials at the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Court in Juba.

The two-week initiative, which will conclude on 29 September 2026, aims to advance proceedings in pending criminal cases, including those involving conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The court is expected to hear 81 pending criminal cases, including 66 cases of rape, currently before the Gender-Based Violence and Juvenile Court in Juba. Three judges will preside over the proceedings, which will be guided by the principles of judicial independence and due process. A survivor-centred approach will seek to safeguard the privacy and well-being of victims and survivors throughout the judicial process.

Prosecutors, defence advocates and legal counsel representing victims will perform their respective roles in accordance with the law and established judicial procedures.

The initiative forms part of the continuing collaboration between UNMISS and the Judiciary of South Sudan in support of the implementation of the Judiciary’s Five-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2029), which identifies clearing case backlog and improving access to justice as key priorities.