A Policy Analysis of Women's Political Participation in South Sudan: Barriers and Pathways, 2021–2026

This policy analysis examines the persistent barriers to and potential pathways for enhancing women’s meaningful political participation in South Sudan between 2021 and 2026. It interrogates why, despite constitutional quotas and international frameworks, women remain significantly underrepresented in formal governance and peace processes. Employing a rigorous qualitative methodology, the study conducts a critical desk-based review of national policy documents—including the Revitalised Peace Agreement and the National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325—supplemented by analysis of reports from South Sudanese civil society and regional bodies. The findings identify a critical implementation gap, wherein entrenched patriarchal norms, systemic insecurity, and a lack of financial resources for female candidates consistently undermine legislative commitments. The analysis contends that effective participation necessitates a shift from mere numerical representation to substantive inclusion in decision-making, a nuance current policies fail to address adequately. The research provides a significant, contextual African-centred critique, arguing that sustainable solutions must be grounded within South Sudanese societal structures. It concludes by outlining key policy implications, advocating for robust accountability mechanisms for quota adherence, targeted funding for women’s political campaigns, and the deliberate integration of customary authority systems into a hybrid governance model to genuinely amplify women’s political agency.