China, Nepal and Rwanda Conduct Joint Drill for Emergency Refugee Scenario in Juba

(JUBA) – A joint military drill focused on the protection and accommodation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has been conducted by the Chinese Peacekeeping Infantry Battalion in South Sudan, as part of ongoing United Nations efforts to improve coordination during humanitarian emergencies.

The exercise took place at the main United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) base, with participation from the UN Joint Operations Center, UN Police, Nepali riot squad and Rwandan riot squad.

The drill was based on a simulated scenario involving a sudden armed conflict in the area surrounding the camp, resulting in a mass influx of civilians seeking shelter.

As part of the simulation, peacekeeping forces were tasked with managing the flow of displaced people, maintaining camp security and ensuring orderly registration and humanitarian access for those in need. Each unit coordinated efforts in real time to respond to the scenario under pressure.

The objective of the drill was to strengthen the operational integration between multinational peacekeeping units and enhance their capacity to protect civilians under extreme and potentially volatile conditions. Officers from the various participating forces discussed strategic plans and coordinated tactical responses to potential threats while protecting civilians entering the UN site.

The Chinese unit, one of the key troop contributors to UNMISS, led the operational planning and logistics for the drill. Their officers worked closely with counterparts from Nepal and Rwanda, who also provide riot control and crowd management support within the mission.

Throughout the exercise, peacekeepers were observed engaging in tasks such as perimeter control, handling displaced persons and conducting IDP registration processes. These elements are crucial during real world emergencies in South Sudan, where waves of displacement can occur due to sporadic violence or climate related disasters such as flooding.

South Sudan hosts some of the largest UN protection sites globally, with thousands of people still relying on humanitarian assistance and UN protection more than a decade after independence.

The capacity of UNMISS to respond effectively to IDP situations remains a critical component of peace and recovery efforts.