South Sudan, often labeled the world's most fragile state, has recently become a destination for deported migrants from the United States. This move comes as the U.S. government has expanded its third-country deportation program, which began earlier this year. The program has primarily focused on Central and South America but has now included African nations, raising concerns about the implications for South Sudan, a country already grappling with severe humanitarian and economic challenges.

In July, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security deported eight migrants to South Sudan after holding them for over a month at a military base in Djibouti. The South Sudanese government, based in Juba, stated it accepted these deportees as a gesture of goodwill and humanitarian cooperation. However, the government did not disclose what it would receive in return for this action. Reports suggest that political concessions, including the lifting of sanctions on ruling party members, may have been part of the negotiations.

Daniel Akech, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group, noted that South Sudan's ongoing humanitarian and financial distress makes it vulnerable to external pressures. He stated, "Juba's leadership also made a pragmatic, if reluctant, choice to use the deal as a potential pathway to ease crippling sanctions and begin rebuilding diplomatic relationships with the U.S."

Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced persistent internal conflict, economic collapse, and the repercussions of the war in neighboring Sudan. With over 90% of its 12 million citizens living in extreme poverty, the country relies heavily on international aid for its development and humanitarian needs. The influx of deportees could exacerbate the already dire situation, as South Sudan is currently hosting around 900,000 refugees and asylum seekers from Sudan, with more expected to arrive.

Edmund Yakani, head of the civil society organization CEPO, expressed concern about the potential consequences of accepting U.S. deportees. He stated, "By accepting this deal, the South Sudan government risks trading a potential diplomatic gain for a definite social loss. It is effectively importing instability and adding to its immense humanitarian challenges."

Corruption remains a significant issue in South Sudan, which was ranked as the most corrupt country in the world in 2025. A recent United Nations investigation revealed that government-affiliated elites have exploited the nation's resources for personal gain. Yakani suggested that the South Sudanese government viewed the deportation deal as a way to gain leverage with the U.S. government.

The U.S. has not offered financial assistance to South Sudan in exchange for accepting deportees, unlike other African nations that have received cash proposals. Instead, South Sudan's demands reportedly included lifting sanctions on Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel and reactivating a bank account at the New York Federal Reserve. The U.S. has not agreed to these demands.

The Trump administration aims to deport one million people annually, but experts predict it will only achieve half that target. As a result, Africa may become a more common destination for U.S. deportees if governments see any of their demands met. The eight migrants already sent to South Sudan have been described by U.S. officials as "uniquely barbaric" criminals, raising fears of increased crime in the region.

While some African nations, such as Ghana and Uganda, have agreed to accept U.S. deportees, others have rejected the offers. Burkina Faso's foreign minister called the request "indecent" and contrary to the principle of dignity. Nigeria has also declined to accept undocumented foreign nationals, citing its own challenges.

The motivations behind the agreements vary among the five African countries accepting deportees. However, the details of these deals remain largely undisclosed, raising questions about the long-term implications for South Sudan and its ability to manage the additional strain on its already overburdened systems.