5 February 2013 - Seeking to increase awareness of UNMISS’ role, mission officials in Lakes State today held a forum for representatives of 20 civil society organizations (CSOs) in the state capital Rumbek.

Some 35 participants attended the one-day event, which included a presentation on mission’s role followed by discussion of UNMISS impartiality.

“We don’t judge when it comes to human rights violations,” said UNMISS Human Rights Officer Francesca Tronco Garcia. “We will investigate any violation made by any party.”

She added that the mission made every effort to collect evidence from both sides in a conflict and appreciated information from varied sources.

“There are still a lot of questions about the role of UNMISS in the current conflict,” said Gabriel Mabor from the Sudanese Disabled Rehabilitation Development Association, adding he was looking forward to another meeting.
UNMISS officials then pledged to hold the forum once a month.

Rumbek Youth Union representative Zachoria Gum Ake said the role of UNMISS was clearer to participants, but there was need for more cooperation between the mission and CSOs.

“UNMISS can contribute to the capacity building of civil society organizations in South Sudan by conducting workshops, meetings and conferences,” he said.