South Sudan – Towards a democratic independent state crisis and progress

Abstract

South Sudan finds itself in the middle of a persistent humanitarian crisis, with an unstable economic foundation, and preparing for its first elections since breaking away from Sudan through an electoral process in 2011. This article reflects on the post-independence situation, and provides an overview of the humanitarian crisis and the progress made by the ‘state’ since its independence. Based on a systematic literature review, this article argues that South Sudan has not yet established itself as a ‘democratic state’ or as a ‘state’ at all. Further reflection on the state’s delayed and derailed plans to develop a constitution and electoral commission, and its failure to hold its first elections (which were previously scheduled, but then had to be postponed), this article concludes that South Sudan is not yet established as a democratic state. Future enquiries may suggest possible solutions to help the parties involved, stakeholders, and citizens to establish the basis of a democratic state.