Summary of SRES 352: Request for Information on South Sudan's Human Rights Practices

Bill Number: SRES 352

Title: A resolution requesting information on the Republic of South Sudan's human rights practices pursuant to section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

Status: Introduced in Senate

Introduced: July 31, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Sponsor: Senator Timothy M. Kaine (Primary)

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SRES 352 is to request a comprehensive report from the Secretary of State regarding the human rights practices of the Government of South Sudan. This request is made in accordance with section 502B(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, which mandates the U.S. government to assess human rights conditions before providing foreign assistance.

Key Provisions

The resolution outlines specific requirements for the Secretary of State to report on:

1. Human Rights Violations:

   • Allegations of arbitrary arrests, detention, torture, and cruel treatment, including for non-citizens removed to South Sudan by the U.S. government.
   • Violations of due process rights for these individuals.
   • Incidents of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
   • Trafficking in persons, including forced labor.
   • Legal rights and treatment of non-citizens in South Sudan.

2. U.S. Government Actions:

   • Steps taken to promote human rights and discourage violations by the South Sudanese government.
   • Assessments conducted prior to the removal of individuals to South Sudan, ensuring their rights and safety.
   • Evaluations of the likelihood that U.S. security assistance could support human rights abuses.

3. Additional Information:

   • Conditions in detention centers in South Sudan.
   • Actions taken to comply with U.S. court orders regarding the return of individuals wrongfully removed.
   • Information on any agreements or financial transactions between the U.S. and South Sudan related to these issues.
   • A summary of meetings between U.S. officials and South Sudanese officials in 2025.

Who Would Be Affected

The resolution primarily affects:
- Individuals who are not citizens of South Sudan but have been removed there by the U.S. government.
- The Government of South Sudan, which is the subject of the human rights assessment.
- U.S. foreign policy and assistance programs related to South Sudan.

Procedural Aspects

• The Secretary of State is required to submit the requested report within 30 days of the resolution's adoption.
• The report must be provided to both the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Conclusion

SRES 352 seeks to ensure accountability and transparency regarding human rights practices in South Sudan, particularly concerning individuals who may be at risk due to U.S. actions. By mandating a detailed report from the Secretary of State, the resolution aims to inform Congress and guide future U.S. foreign assistance and policy decisions related to South Sudan.