By Chuol Chanyong

At least 143 cases of abortion have been recorded in Juba’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp 3, says a human rights coordinator, revealing that fetuses are often disposed off in the waste or pit latrines.  

Speaking to The City Review in an interview, Asunta Adwok, who resides within IDP camp 3, said the cases were recorded from January to June 2025.

“At the camp, I play the role of human rights coordinator. We have documented issues occurring within the camp, particularly those related to girls and women who have resorted to abortions.”

“These cases have reached 143, with fetuses being discarded in waste pits or toilets.”

Asunta said there are many reasons leading to the increasing rate of abortion in the camp.

“A girl might accidentally get pregnant by someone who refuses to marry her or even acknowledge responsibility for the child. When she sees no other solution, she resorts to disposing off the fetus in waste, especially if she lacks support.”

“In other cases, women become pregnant due to rape and they are forced to terminate the pregnancy out of fear of family repercussions,” Asunta explained.

She urged women and girls to avoid such extreme measures, advising them to accept the pregnancy if it occurs.

“We must not view pregnancy as an obstacle. With support from relevant organizations, girls can continue their education after childbirth. Pregnancy is not a disgrace; it is a natural and common occurrence.”  

The human rights coordinator appealed to the government and supporting organizations to encourage girls not to resort to abortion and to guide them properly in such situations, ensuring they can pursue education in safe environments.  

The camp leader, Mr. Chuol Kiir, also acknowledged the rampant cases of abortion in the area.

“Abortions do happen, but due to extreme sensitivity, women rarely share this information openly. These matters are often discussed only among the women themselves,” he said.  

“However, I cannot be specific with exact figures, as women do not disclose such issues easily. Nevertheless, these cases undoubtedly exist.”

Aid workers and community leaders have in the past expressed concern over increasing reports of abortions in the UN ‘Protection of Civilians’ sites in South Sudan. The UN says that rape is one of the factors leading to ‘unwanted pregnancies’ at these camps.