New York Week Ahead
From 22 to 27 September 2025, the United Nations will hold its 80th General Assembly in New York, themed ‘Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights’. South Sudan intends to seize the moment.
President Salva Kiir has selected Vice President Josephine Lagu Yanga to lead the delegation, signalling both confidence in her stature and an emphasis on continuity.
Historic Delegation Choice
Lagu Yanga becomes the highest-ranking South Sudanese woman ever to address the Assembly, a milestone that appeals to domestic audiences pushing for broader gender representation.
Her presence also maintains continuity with last year’s delegation, which she co-chaired, ensuring familiarity with ongoing dialogues on humanitarian aid and state-building.
Balancing Acts in Global Diplomacy
Juba’s foreign policy treads a careful line of non-alignment. Its recent abstention in the UN vote on Palestinian statehood aimed to safeguard vital partnerships, particularly with Israel, while avoiding estrangement from Arab and African allies.
Analyst Peter Biar Ajak observes, ‘South Sudan knows it cannot afford diplomatic enemies; every relationship translates into food, medicine, or security support.’
UNGA 80: Crises and Funding Strains
The Assembly meets amid war in Gaza, competing narratives of accountability, and calls for a permanent ceasefire. Delegates are expected to revisit humanitarian corridors and civilian protection.
Simultaneously, the UN grapples with budget gaps after delayed contributions by major donors, weakening peacekeeping missions that benefit states such as South Sudan.
Juba’s Hopes and Domestic Pressures
Inside Juba, flooding, displacement, and sporadic violence strain resources. Government advisers view the New York trip as a chance to secure pledged funds and keep humanitarian spotlights switched on.
The delegation will also court investors for infrastructure, particularly in energy and agriculture, sectors officials describe as ‘growth multipliers’ if stability endures.
Looking Forward
Observers expect Lagu Yanga to emphasize peace dividends and inclusive development rather than divisive geopolitics, aligning with the Assembly’s anniversary theme.
Whether the message converts to fresh funding will hinge on global appetite for engagement, yet diplomats say South Sudan’s consistent, moderate tone remains its strongest selling point.