JUBA, South Sudan, August 15, 2024 — A young South Sudanese activist, Adhot Chan Chan, is speaking out against the persistent issue of early and forced marriages, as well as other forms of gender-based violence (GBV) in the country. Chan, who is a civil rights advocate, voiced her concerns during an interview with Radio Tamazuj in Juba, condemning the practice of using girls as a means of acquiring wealth through marriage or commercial sex work.
Chan criticized communities across South Sudan for perpetuating these harmful practices, which she says deny girls the opportunity to pursue education and build a better future. “Our fathers make us a source of income, huge monies, and that is why they force their daughters to be married against their will or send their underage daughters into marriage for wealth,” Chan stated. She emphasized the need for cultural change and urged families to break free from these traditions that oppress women and girls.
In addition to addressing the community, Chan also called on government authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators of GBV. She expressed frustration over the lack of leadership in South Sudan to effectively combat these issues. “It seems as if there are no leaders in South Sudan to contain the bad habits. Surely, I am not happy with the open infringements against people’s rights in our country,” she added.
Supporting Chan’s stance, Lawyer Barnaba Aguer Deng highlighted that early and forced marriages are criminal offenses under South Sudanese law, calling for greater respect for the rights of children. “Early marriage is an offense due to the fact that it is a violation of a child’s rights,” Deng remarked, urging the public to adhere to legal standards and protect the youth.
Chan’s advocacy is a crucial voice in the ongoing fight against gender inequality and violence in South Sudan, where harmful cultural practices continue to threaten the well-being and future of many young girls.
