The United States has threatened to reduce its foreign assistance to South Sudan unless the government lifts “illicit fees” on humanitarian shipments.
The US Bureau of African Affairs accused South Sudan of imposing “exorbitant fees” and obstructing UN peacekeeping operations, calling these actions “egregious violations” of international obligations.
The US is the largest humanitarian donor to South Sudan, which has been ravaged by conflict since gaining independence in 2011.
Foreign donors have repeatedly objected to South Sudan’s attempts to collect taxes on humanitarian imports.
If the government doesn’t comply, the US will review its foreign assistance, likely leading to significant reductions.
