Traditional Authorities, Local Justice and Local Conflict Resolution Mechanisms in South Sudan

Abstract

This chapter explores local justice and conflict resolution mechanisms using the example of South Sudan. By describing and critically discussing different arenas of local justice and conflict resolution mechanisms, it contributes to reflections on the meaning of the term ‘local’ in South Sudan. The chapter illustrates that chiefs play a significant role in local justice as well as in conflict resolution in South Sudan. In addition, the chapter exemplifies that ‘local level’, ‘grassroots’ conflict resolution mechanisms are multi-layered and frequently involve regional and national government institutions as well as external actors such as UN agencies, international donors and international NGOs that support peace initiatives and peace conferences.KeywordsTraditional authoritiesLocal justiceChiefsSouth Sudan‘Local’Conflict resolution mechanismsPeace conferenceWunlitDinka‘People-to-people peace process’