Sarcouncil Journal of Multidisciplinary

Abstract: This study examines the role of civil society in promoting democratic consolidation in South Sudan from 2011 to 2023. It investigates how civil society organizations (CSOs) contribute to democracy through advocacy, civic education, accountability, and peacebuilding efforts within a fragile and post-conflict context. The objectives of the study were as followed; to examine the historical and current state of civil society in South Sudan, to identify the challenges faced by civil society organizations in promoting democracy and to provide strategies for strengthening civil society and enhancing democratic consolidation in South Sudan. The research employed a mixed-method design combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data was collected from 50 respondents through questionnaires and interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The findings reveal that while civil society in South Sudan has a meaningful historical foundation, its current influence remains limited by political instability, weak institutional capacity, and financial constraints. Nevertheless, CSOs continue to play a critical role in peacebuilding, promoting civic participation, and advocating for human rights and good governance. Indeed, civil society in South Sudan plays a historically significant but constrained role due to political instability, limited resources, and weak institutions. Despite these challenges, civil society can promote democracy through advocacy, civic education, and international collaboration. Strengthening civil society requires policy reforms, capacity-building, and sustainable funding. Public engagements and partnerships with government and international actors are essential for effective democratic consolidation. The study concludes that democratic consolidation in South Sudan largely depends on strengthening civil society through legal and policy reforms, capacity building, and sustainable partnerships with government and international actors. It recommends enhanced support mechanisms, improved coordination, and expanded civic education to foster inclusive, accountable, and participatory democratic governance.