The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched its Fragility Index, a tool designed to aid South Sudan’s transition from reliance on humanitarian aid to sustainable recovery.
The unveiling took place on Wednesday at the Pyramid Hotel in Juba and featured presentations highlighting the findings of the Fragility Index and discussions on its practical application.
Notable case studies were shared, illustrating how the index can be utilized on the ground. A panel discussion included representatives from the Duke University, IOM, the Humanitarian Coordinator, the EU Delegation, and South Sudan’s Ministry of Peacebuilding.
IOM South Sudan Chief of Mission Vijaya Souri emphasized the index’s potential to identify community vulnerabilities.
“Let us continue to work in the spirit of collaboration. IOM is committed to collaborating with each of you to ensure the Fragility Index becomes a resource that informs, not only IOM is programming, but also the work of every organization here today, as well as government entities.
“Together, I believe we can unlock the full potential of this tool to improve the lives of communities we serve and pave the way for a more resilient and peaceful South Sudan,” Souri stated.
The Fragility Index aims to provide critical data that will guide humanitarian responses and foster resilience among populations most affected by conflict and instability.
The EU acting head of cooperation, Barbara Egger, underscored the importance of showcasing regional fragility to mobilize resources and attention, paving the way for sustainable development.
“As the European Union, we have a long-standing commitment to supporting South Sudan’s stability and resilience in an integrated manner. Our engagement in South Sudan extends beyond immediate humanitarian needs to focus on long-term development,” Egger remarked.
The South Sudan Ministry of Peacebuilding Undersecretary, Philip Michael Pia, expressed gratitude to IOM for facilitating the study.
“The launch of the Fragility Index is a crucial step in our collective efforts to enhance peace and stability in South Sudan. This tool will be invaluable for our planning processes and for the people of South Sudan,” Pia said.
The Fragility Index provides a comprehensive framework for assessing vulnerabilities, enabling stakeholders to better allocate resources and implement targeted interventions.
The initiative arrives at a critical juncture as South Sudan continues to navigate complex socio-economic and political landscapes, aiming to build a more resilient future for its communities.