What Happened to Aid Workers After Airstrikes Targeted a South Sudan Hospital?

Recent air strikes on a hospital in South Sudan's Jonglei state have resulted in an unknown number of aid workers going missing. This incident, attributed to the South Sudan government forces, raises significant concerns regarding humanitarian safety and the ongoing conflict in the region. The hospital, operated by Doctors Without Borders (MSF), has been rendered unusable, highlighting the dire healthcare needs in an area already suffering from severe food insecurity and conflict-related displacement.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

On the night of 3 October 2023, the MSF-run hospital in Lankien was hit by an air strike, resulting in significant damage and the injuring of one staff member. Following the attack, MSF reported that their colleagues had to flee, and their current whereabouts remain unknown. This strike occurred amidst a resurgence of violence in Jonglei state, where clashes between government forces and those loyal to First Vice-President Riek Machar have escalated, creating fears of a potential return to full-scale civil war.

Key takeaways

MSF's hospital in Jonglei state was struck by an air strike on 3 October 2023.
Several aid workers are missing following the attack.
The hospital was the only healthcare provider for approximately 250,000 people in the area.
Ongoing fighting between government forces and opposition is contributing to a humanitarian crisis.
MSF has faced multiple targeted attacks in South Sudan, impacting healthcare delivery.

Timeline: how we got here

The conflict in South Sudan has a complex history, but here are some key recent milestones leading to the current situation:

2013: Fighting broke out between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar.
2018: A peace agreement was signed, but implementation has been inconsistent.
December 2022: Government restrictions on humanitarian access in opposition-held areas were imposed.
3 October 2023: The MSF hospital in Lankien was attacked and subsequently rendered unusable.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Since the attack on the MSF hospital, there has been a significant outcry regarding the safety of humanitarian workers in conflict zones. The number of missing aid workers has not yet been confirmed, and the South Sudanese government has not issued a statement regarding the incident.

What was already established

Previously, MSF had reported a troubling trend of targeted attacks on their facilities in South Sudan, with eight such incidents occurring in the past year alone. The organisation has consistently faced challenges in delivering essential medical care due to violence and government restrictions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the immediate impact on UK consumers may seem indirect, the situation in South Sudan could affect international humanitarian aid funding, which often involves UK taxpayers. As the crisis deepens, calls for increased support may arise, impacting government budgets and charitable contributions.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses involved in humanitarian aid or those that operate in international markets, the instability in South Sudan could disrupt supply chains and complicate operational logistics. Additionally, increased danger to aid workers may lead to heightened insurance costs and operational hesitance in conflict zones.

Policy and regulation

The UK government may face pressure to reassess its foreign aid strategy in light of the escalating violence in South Sudan. This could lead to discussions around the allocation of funds and the prioritisation of humanitarian missions in conflict areas.

Numbers that matter

280,000: Estimated number of people displaced in Jonglei state since December 2022 due to ongoing conflict.
8: Number of targeted attacks on MSF facilities in South Sudan last year.
250,000: Individuals served by the MSF hospital in Lankien prior to the attack.
400,000: Approximate number of people killed during the civil war that began in 2013.
1: Number of staff injured in the latest hospital attack.

Definitions and jargon buster

MSF: Médecins Sans Frontières, or Doctors Without Borders, a medical humanitarian organisation that provides aid in conflict zones.
Civil war: A war between groups within the same country, typically for control of the government or territory.
Humanitarian access: The ability of aid organisations to reach populations in need, often restricted in conflict areas.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the focus will likely be on search and rescue operations for the missing aid workers, as well as assessments of the damage done to healthcare facilities. MSF may adapt its strategies to continue providing care amidst the violence.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the fighting continues, MSF and other humanitarian organisations will need to reassess their operational strategies in South Sudan. There may be a push for international pressure on the South Sudanese government to protect humanitarian workers and allow access to those in need.

Signals to watch

Updates from MSF regarding the status of the missing workers.
Statements from the South Sudanese government regarding humanitarian access and safety regulations.
International community responses, including potential sanctions or aid adjustments.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the situation in South Sudan through reliable news sources.
Consider supporting humanitarian organisations like MSF through donations.
Advocate for policies that protect humanitarian workers in conflict zones.

Don’t

Don’t assume that the situation will improve without international intervention.
Don’t overlook the importance of ongoing support for affected communities in conflict areas.
Don’t ignore calls for increased humanitarian assistance from organisations like MSF.

Checklist

Check for news updates regarding the safety of aid workers in South Sudan.
Review your charitable giving to ensure support for humanitarian efforts.
Engage with advocacy groups focused on humanitarian rights.
Monitor government statements regarding foreign aid policies.
Stay aware of broader geopolitical developments in East Africa.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As the situation in South Sudan is fluid, the exact number of missing aid workers remains uncertain, and the South Sudanese government has not provided clarity on its military actions. The potential for escalation in violence poses significant risks to both civilians and humanitarian workers. Furthermore, the impact of international responses on the ground remains to be seen, with various factors influencing the effectiveness of any proposed measures.

Bottom line

The recent air strike on the MSF hospital in South Sudan underscores the urgent need for international attention to the deteriorating humanitarian situation. With aid workers missing and healthcare facilities compromised, the local communities face an increasingly dire situation. As the international community assesses its response, maintaining support for humanitarian efforts is crucial to prevent further deterioration.

FAQs

What happened to the aid workers in South Sudan?

Several aid workers are missing following an air strike on a hospital in South Sudan's Jonglei state on 3 October 2023, attributed to government forces.

Why is the situation in Jonglei state critical?

Jonglei state is experiencing severe conflict, resulting in widespread displacement and compromised healthcare, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.

What can be done to support humanitarian efforts in South Sudan?

Supporting organisations like MSF through donations and advocacy can help provide essential medical care and protect humanitarian workers in conflict zones.