As South Sudan continues to grapple with sexual and gender-based violence, which remains one of the most pressing scourges in society, legal scholar Dr Akuch Kuol emphasises the need for comprehensive interventions that go beyond legal reforms.

She points out that the concept of consent remains a significant grey area, often enabling the continued perpetration of violence against women and girls. Drawing on her research, Dr Kuol highlights the importance of strengthening the legal and policy frameworks, enforcing existing laws, and transforming cultural and customary norms. She stresses that such transformation must be approached with nuance, reflecting the complex realities of South Sudanese family dynamics.

Dr Akuch Kuol shares these insights in conversation with Radio Miraya’s Lucas de Gumwel.