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<p>Freedom of expression has an essential role to play in the establishment of peace
and stability in South Sudan. We are deeply concerned at any closing of political
space and restrictions on freedom of expression in the country, both for activists
and for local and international journalists. This is incompatible with the Government
of South Sudan's expressed desire to see a successful resolution to the nation's crises.
We continue to lobby the Government of South Sudan to ensure that journalists, human
rights activists and civil society are free to operate without fear of retribution.
Through our Media Freedom Campaign we are providing support to journalists inside
the country including continued funding for local media associations</p><p>The UK
lobbied the Government of South Sudan on political detainees including during Peter
Biar's imprisonment in 2018-19. This included calling for due process, access to legal
representation and for his release from detention as part of the 2018 peace agreement.
We welcomed his eventual release alongside other prisoners in January and are aware
of his recent arrival in the US. Our officials remain in contact with him.</p>
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