世界银行-支持南苏丹的司法救助——2025年JUPITER评估（英）-2025_116页_4mb

Summary of JUPITER Assessment on Justice in South Sudan

Key Findings:

1. Dual Justice System:

   • South Sudan has statutory and customary courts. Customary courts resolve around 80% of disputes but face jurisdictional ambiguities, particularly in criminal cases. Clarification is needed, especially regarding land disputes.

2. Limited Access to Statutory Justice:

   • Most regions lack functional courts. Translating documents, mobility issues, and financial constraints hinder access. Legal aid is scarce, and government efforts are insufficient.

3. Inefficiency and Backlog:

   • Case clearance rates are low due to underfunding, inadequate staffing, and resource shortages. Delays in appointments and salaries exacerbate inefficiencies.

4. Gender and Vulnerable Groups:

   • Women face barriers in accessing justice, including social stigma and limited legal representation. Persons with disabilities and those with linguistic barriers also experience significant challenges.

Policy Implications:

1. Clarify Jurisdictional Ambiguities: Prioritize resolving jurisdictional confusion between statutory and customary courts, especially in criminal cases and land disputes.

2. Strengthen Judicial Efficiency: Conduct feasibility studies before introducing reforms like specialized courts. Phased infrastructure improvements should address the backlog and procedural inefficiencies.

3. Expand Access to Legal Services: Enhance legal aid polices to ensure affordability and effectiveness. Prioritize digitalization and mobile courts to reach remote areas.

4. Promote Gender Equality and Inclusion: Increase women’s participation in decision-making mechanisms within both statutory and customary courts to address systemic barriers.

Data and Measurement:
The assessment leverages empirical evidence from fieldwork, administrative, and historical data to outline actionable steps for justice reform, aligning with South Sudan’s commitments under the constitutional framework and the R-ARCSS.