A year after the signing of a peace agreement between the Ethiopian government and rebels in Tigray province, the human rights situation remains worrying. A recent report presented by a group of UN experts reveals that serious violations continue to be perpetrated, both in Tigray and in other regions of the country.
In Tigray, Eritrean troops, who had come to support the Ethiopian army, remain present despite the end of the war. They are accused of committing atrocities, war crimes and crimes against humanity, including rape and systematic sexual violence against women and girls. These acts are intolerable and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
In addition, hostilities have spread to other regions of the country. In Amhara, there have been reports of mass arbitrary detentions of civilians since the federal government declared a state of emergency. In Oromia, government forces also carry out arrests, detentions and torture of civilians. This escalation of violence is alarming and firm action must be taken to put an end to it.
The report also raises the impunity that reigns in the country. The Ethiopian government is accused of failing to effectively prevent or investigate these violations. An impunity which reinforces this vicious circle of violence and must be broken. Steps must be taken to ensure the protection of human rights, justice and reconciliation.
It is essential that the international community remains vigilant in the face of this serious situation. Efforts must be made to support independent investigations and respect for human rights in Ethiopia. Targeted sanctions can also be considered against those responsible for these violations, in order to exert international pressure and put an end to this destructive spiral.
In conclusion, it is time to act to end human rights violations in Ethiopia. The signing of a peace agreement must not serve as a pretext for impunity. Justice and respect for fundamental rights must be at the heart of the country’s reconstruction. Only a firm and determined approach will restore peace and stability in the Tigray region and throughout Ethiopia.