A civil society organization INTREPID-South Sudan has successfully concluded a major advocacy public discourse on peace, security, and youth inclusion in the constitution-making and decision-making processes in Jonglei State.
The event, held in Bor, brought together over 40 participants representing a diverse mix of state and non-state stakeholders, including youth and women’s groups from all nine counties of Jonglei State, internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Bor, the Director General of the Ministry of Peacebuilding, civil society organizations, UN agencies, and local leaders.
The discussion was graced by Tuor Maiok, Chairperson of the Jonglei State High Electoral Commission, and Simon Manyok Deng, Human Rights Advisor to the Governor of Jonglei State. Both dignitaries commended INTREPID-South Sudan for fostering dialogue and strengthening youth and women’s participation in governance and peacebuilding processes.
In his remarks, Maiok emphasized the importance of inclusive engagement in constitution-making adding that the future depend shaping laws of South Sudan.
“the future of South Sudan depends on how much the youth and women are empowered to take part in shaping the laws and institutions that govern them.” Said Said Majok.
The public discourse, supported by Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) South Sudan, led to a key outcome the formation of an “Electoral and Constitution-Making Forum.”
This new forum, to be convened monthly, will bring together youth and women representatives from all counties, as well as faith-based leaders, academics from Dr. John Garang University of Science and Technology, persons with disabilities, civil society organizations, media representatives, county coordinators, and relevant government ministries.
The forum will be co-chaired by the Chairperson of the Jonglei State High Electoral Commissionand a representative of the National Constitutional Review Commission (NCRC).
According to Bol Deng Bol chairperson of INTREPID-South Sudan, the forum will serve as a platform for civic education, public engagement, and policy advocacy, ensuring that the voices of youth, women, and other marginalized groups are meaningfully included in the ongoing constitution-making and electoral processes.
“We are deeply grateful to NPA South Sudan for their continued support,” said Bol.
“This initiative will go a long way in promoting peace transition, expanding civic space, and empowering women and youth in Jonglei State.” He added.
The event marks a significant step toward inclusive governance and sustainable peacebuilding in South Sudan, reinforcing the role of young people and women as key actors in shaping the country’s democratic future.