Assessing Sustainable Development Goal 6 Progress and Challenges in South Sudan: A Global Perspective

Abstract

Achieving sustainable development, which addresses present needs while preserving future generations' well-being, remains a global priority. Among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015, SDG 6 underscores the critical importance of access to clean drinking water and adequate sanitation. However, progress toward this goal is hindered by persistent challenges globally, particularly in South Sudan, where conflict, political instability, and inadequate infrastructure severely impact implementation efforts. This study examines South Sudan's progress, challenges, and prospects for achieving SDG 6. Utilizing data from the Sustainable Development Report (2023) and a combination of qualitative-to-quantitative analysis and cluster categorization, the study situates South Sudan within a group of countries facing similar socio-political and developmental challenges. Findings reveal significant deficits in access to clean water and sanitation, with South Sudan ranked among the lowest globally for SDG 6 performance. The high spillover index should be important also, because it indicates the extent of the need for interaction with other countries with regards to the cross-cutting problems. This paper therefore calls for the development of all-inclusive approaches such as Infrastructure development, sound management of natural resources and Wastewater management systems. Moreover, creating sustainable and stable societies in conflict regions should be the priority toward the achievement of the SDG 6 and advancing broader sustainable development goals. The findings underscore the necessity for holistic, collaborative approaches to overcome entrenched barriers and enhance access to water and sanitation in South Sudan and similar contexts globally.