Mr. Franz Rauchenstein:

Juba and Khartoum both have converging interests in the situation. Khartoum profits and benefits from the oil exports of South Sudan. South Sudan depends on the pipeline of Sudan, so both have an interest in the stability of the situation. In that sense, the conflict has not negatively affected the relationship between both countries.

There are, of course, child soldiers in the various armed groups. In that regard, the ICRC has always put much effort into having the Geneva Conventions respected and those children demobilised. South Sudan is also part of the UNICEF plan of action to demobilise child soldiers, so there is enough pressure on the parties to demobilise the child soldiers who are currently deployed.

The Deputy mentioned the sexual violence against women. Boys are also sometimes victims. This is a very big concern. It is very difficult to address in South Sudan as it carries a high stigma. The victims do not come forward naturally and seek medical care and psychological support, so it is difficult to access those victims. However, it is also something that is addressed, and it is also addressed by the ICRC.