Why in News?

India recently condemned an attack on peacekeepers deployed with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

About the UN Mission in South Sudan

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is a UN peacekeeping mission mandated under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.

Background

UNMISS was established on 8 July 2011 under UN Security Council Resolution 1996 (2011), following South Sudan’s declaration of independence.

After the outbreak of civil conflict in December 2013, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2155 (2014). This reprioritised the mission’s core focus towards protecting civilians and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Key Functions of UNMISS

Protection of Civilians

UNMISS works to protect civilians from violence and create a secure environment for vulnerable populations.

Humanitarian Assistance

The mission facilitates the safe, timely and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to people in need across South Sudan.

Promotion of Human Rights

UNMISS monitors, investigates and reports violations and abuses of international human rights law and international humanitarian law.

Support for the Peace Process

The mission uses good offices and facilitates dialogue between the parties to support the peace process and prevent the escalation of political violence.

Institutional and Electoral Support

UNMISS monitors and reports on progress in security-sector reforms, legal reforms, election-related processes and transitional justice mechanisms.

Promotion of Durable Peace

The mission works to promote human rights, political dialogue and sustainable peace in South Sudan.

India’s Contribution to UNMISS

According to the provided source, as of April 2026, India was the largest troop contributor to UNMISS, with 1,775 Indian military personnel deployed with the mission.