Ethnic Divisions, Geopolitical Pressures, and Foreign Policy Vulnerabilities: Pathways to Peace and Stability in South Sudan

South Sudan’s continued violence and political instability that engulfed the country since its independence stem from deep ethnic divisions exacerbated by political interests along the tribal lines and field by external geopolitical pressures and compounded by a weak foreign policy framework and lack of critical domestic policies to catalyse development, enhance peacebuilding, and promote self-reliance and access to basic services. This article analyses the interplay between Dinka-Nuer rivalries at the politico-national level, fuelled by inter-communal tensions and tendencies, and the effects of strategic interests of regional and global actors, highlighting their role in perpetuating conflict and continued national political divide. The article provides a critical analysis of South Sudan’s diplomatic and economic vulnerabilities as a result of persistent instability and proposes a policy reform with a foreign policy centred on bilateral partnerships, regional collaboration, institutional transparency, and economic diversification. By addressing these dimensions, South Sudan can rebuild trust, gain integrity in the face of regional and international partners, and enhance partnerships with development partners to strengthen governance and chart a sustainable path to peace and stability. Drawing on conflict analysis and policy perspectives, this study offers actionable insights for stakeholders seeking to support South Sudan’s recovery while providing a framework for the country’s policy makers to initiate reforms, an institutional transparency and accountability framework as incentives to development and peacebuilding in the country.