
The United Nations Human Rights chief has called for an end to hostilities in Ethiopia, urging all parties to resolve their differences peacefully as ongoing conflicts continue to threaten peace in the northeast African country.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights spokesperson, Liz Throssell, relayed the message from Human Rights chief Volker Turk, who presented a comprehensive update on Ethiopia’s human rights situation from January 2023 to January 2024.
The update highlighted notable improvements in the human rights landscape of the northern Tigray region following the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement in November 2022. Despite these advancements, serious human rights violations and abuses persisted throughout 2023, particularly in the Amhara and Oromia regions.
A major concern remains the ongoing violations committed by Eritrean Defense Forces. “Eritrean troops are operating on their own,” Throssell stated, reflecting the UN’s apprehension over the lack of accountability for these actions.
Turk emphasized the critical need for all parties to cease hostilities and pursue peaceful resolutions. “It is essential that the authorities take all feasible steps to protect civilians, prevent further violations, and ensure full investigations to bring those responsible to justice,” he urged.
In 2023, violent conflicts led to the deaths of at least 1,351 civilians across Ethiopia, with 740 of these deaths occurring in Amhara. The government’s use of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, resulted in 248 civilian deaths between August 4 and December 31, 2023, and also destroyed essential infrastructure like schools and hospitals, raising serious concerns about the legality and humanitarian impact of these strikes.
The update detailed a tragic incident on January 29, 2023, where at least 89 civilians were killed by government troops in Merawi town near Bahir Dar, the regional capital of Amhara. Overall, the report documented 594 incidents of human rights violations and abuses, affecting 8,253 victims—a 56% increase compared to 2022. State actors were responsible for about 70% of these violations, while non-state actors accounted for 22%.
Insurgents from the Fano separatist movement and their allies were reported to have killed at least 52 civilians, destroyed property, attacked medical personnel, and targeted government personnel. The State of Emergency declared in Ethiopia on August 4, 2023, expired on June 3, 2024. Turk welcomed the decision not to extend it and urged authorities to release detainees held under the former State of Emergency if they were not charged under valid law and to ensure fair trials.
Turk also called on Ethiopian authorities to lift movement restrictions and resume regular law enforcement operations to protect the population.
The UN’s call for peace and accountability underscores the urgent need for a resolution and justice amid Ethiopia’s ongoing conflicts. As the country navigates these challenges, the international community’s support and vigilance remain crucial to ensuring a stable and secure future for all Ethiopians.
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