South Sudan’s decrepit regime is unravelling
The Economist
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
South Sudan’s regime is teetering on the brink of collapse, dragging the country down with it. The latest sign of this unraveling came in January when the newly appointed director of civil aviation unilaterally altered payment terms for international airlines operating over South Sudanese airspace. Instead of adhering to existing agreements, he demanded that all airlines pay a new company linked to the president’s family. Airlines refused, leading to a halt in payments and severe financial repercussions. The Juba International Airport, the country’s main hub, is now struggling with dwindling cash reserves, fuel shortages, and a brain drain of licensed air-traffic controllers.
This crisis reflects deeper systemic issues within South Sudan’s governance and economy. The mismanagement of resources and the prioritization of political interests over national stability have created an environment of instability and economic decay. The airport situation is just one symptom of a broader collapse in public services, with far-reaching implications for business operations and international relations.
For businesses, this chaos poses significant risks. South Sudan’s economic instability discourages foreign investment and creates uncertainty for companies operating or considering expansion in the region. Additionally, the loss of revenue from international flights due to the airport’s financial struggles further exacerbates the country’s economic woes. This cycle of decline not only affects South Sudan but also impacts global trade routes and aviation networks that rely on its airspace.
In a broader sense, South Sudan’s unraveling serves as a cautionary tale for other nations facing similar governance challenges. The interplay between political corruption, economic mismanagement, and infrastructure collapse highlights the importance of stable leadership and transparent financial systems in maintaining national stability and fostering business growth.
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/26/2026