Ambassador Marjan Schippers - South Sudan
The ambassador
Marjan Schippers
‘As the world’s youngest country, South Sudan faces major challenges,’ says Marjan Schippers, the Dutch ambassador in Juba. ‘But thanks to a relationship that stretches back decades, the Netherlands and South Sudan are able to work together well on topics including water, food security, women’s rights and security and rule of law.’
What is it like to be the ambassador to South Sudan?
‘I’m grateful to be ambassador to the youngest country in the world. My team and I are hopeful that, after years of terrible conflict, South Sudan can make a new start. The people deserve peace and the prospect of a better future. That’s what motivates us in our daily work. No matter how difficult the circumstances may sometimes be – the implementation of the peace agreement, for example.’
What interested you about being ambassador to South Sudan?
‘I started out as an economist and have been working at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for 30 years in areas including sustainable economic development. Through my previous posting in Mali I also gained experience working in a country with a complex security situation. When the position in South Sudan opened up, I saw it as a good opportunity to make use of my knowledge and experience.’
How are bilateral relations between South Sudan and the Netherlands?
‘The Netherlands’ position here is unique and stretches back decades. In the early 1970s, the Netherlands built the first bridge across the Nile. That’s something the older generation who fought for South Sudan’s independence haven’t forgotten. The Netherlands was also one of the first countries to recognise the young nation. And, aside from Germany and France, we’re the only EU country with an embassy in Juba.’
What policy areas do the countries work together in and how does the Netherlands contribute?
‘We consistently focus on what we’re good at. The Netherlands is active in areas such as water, agriculture, food security and security and rule of law. Years ago the Netherlands set up a rice irrigation project in Northern Bahr el Ghazal, which fell out of use during the war. But recently our partners have breathed new life into it, which is great to see. The Netherlands places a lot of importance on the implementation of the peace agreement, and our work on transitional justice with organisations such as the UN Development Programme have brought sustainable peace one step closer. And as one of just two female ambassadors in Juba, I am also working to improve the position of women and stop violence against women. Wherever possible, we try to view the challenges in South Sudan within the wider context. Problems and solutions can’t be seen in isolation. In Juba we even have a special climate officer who looks at the effects of climate change on agriculture, water and security. Lastly, because there are so many people in South Sudan who depend on humanitarian aid, the Netherlands tries wherever possible to incorporate our aid in to development programmes (nexus). The aim of that is to help the people of South Sudan rebuild their lives and provide a brighter future for the country’s young people.’
In what ways are South Sudan and the Netherlands similar?
‘Both countries have a lot of water and a lot of cows. There are around 14 million cattle in South Sudan and they’re kept to pay dowries rather than for their milk or meat. Together with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization we’re looking at how else livestock can be used to help people sustain themselves, without compromising the animals’ wellbeing. Our countries are also united in the fight against water. Especially now climate-related flooding is becoming a more regular problem in South Sudan. And the country is turning to the Netherlands for its knowledge and expertise in water management. I expect that, in the years ahead, the Netherlands will continue to play a more active role in this regard. We’re also trying to help South Sudan expand its own expertise in this area. For instance, as co-host of the UN Water Conference the Netherlands supported South Sudan’s participation.’
What are you and your team’s priorities for the next few years?
‘I hope to see greater dynamism in the relationship between the Netherlands and South Sudan. That we move beyond joint statements to concrete collaboration with real results. 2024 marks the fiftieth anniversary of when the Netherlands built the first bridge over the Nile in Juba. That’s a great symbol of our connection. Behind the scenes we may not always agree, and that’s okay. We have a long history and should be able to speak frankly and openly, for example about the UN arms embargo or support for Ukraine. Despite our differences, together we’re moving step by step towards peace in South Sudan and a bright future for its people.’