SUMMARY

The Murle is an ethnic group that predominately lives in the Pibor district in Jonglei state in Southern Sudan (South Sudan after its independence in 2011). They number around 300 000 to 400 00 and are divided into two subgroups. The lowland Murle are the larger of the two and are primarily shepherds whilst the highlands Murle are primarily farmers. The Murle are spread over a fairly extensive geographical area, but despite this they make up a unified group in which all members speak the same language. Also, links between the subgroups are common and intermarriage widespread between the lowland and highland Murle. The Murle is an animist group believing that not just human but also other objects have spirits. Throughout the years the Murle group has been involved in many raids against other groups. These raids have mostly focused on cattle-rustling and the Murle have several songs with references of cattle raided from their neighbours. This has created a strong sense of identity and pride, in which outsiders are regarded as enemies.

The Murle are relatively isolated and are not particularly involved in political issues. During the civil war between SPLM/A and the Government of Sudan many Murle were recruited to fight alongside the government army.

The Murle group has been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.