Investigating the Impact of Post-Independence Ethnic Politics on Displacement and Security Dilemmas in South Sudan: A Qualitative Approach

This study aimed to examine the influence of post-independence ethnic politics on displacement and security challenges in South Sudan through a qualitative approach. The purpose was to understand how ethnic identities and political power struggles contributed to displacement, insecurity, and societal instability since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. Guided by a phenomenological interpretivist paradigm, the research focused on capturing the perceptions and experiences of key stakeholders, including government officials, security personnel, and displaced community members, to provide nuanced insights into these complex issues. Several theoretical lenses informed the analysis: Ethnic Identity Theory, Conflict Theory, Security Dilemma, Human Security, and Postcolonial Theory. Ethnic Identity Theory explained how ethnic affiliations influenced perceptions and group behaviours, often fueling conflicts over political representation and resources. Conflict Theory highlighted systemic inequalities and resource competition that perpetuated violence. Security Dilemma Theory illustrated how efforts by groups to secure themselves inadvertently escalated tensions, creating cycles of mistrust. Human Security shifted focus from state-centric security to individual well-being, addressing vulnerabilities faced by displaced populations, including threats to health, livelihoods, and safety. Postcolonial Theory provided critical insights into how colonial legacies and external narratives sustained ethnic divisions and conflict dynamics in South Sudan. Methodologically, the study employed semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions in key urban centers such as Juba, Malakal, and Wau. A total of 237 participants were involved: 58 government officials, 58 university students, and 121 security commanders, selected through a combination of random and purposive sampling techniques. Data was analyzed thematically to identify patterns related to ethnic influence on political beha