Human Rights Watch Report Exposes Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Ethiopia Amid Global Inaction
Addis Abeba | January 23, 2024 — A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has cast a spotlight on the deepening humanitarian and human rights crisis in Ethiopia, warning that global indifference and weakened accountability mechanisms are fueling ongoing atrocities and mass displacement across the country.
The World Report 2024 outlines how the fragile peace deal signed in November 2022 has failed to end widespread abuses in the northern regions of Tigray and Amhara. Despite continued reports of crimes against humanity, Western nations and the European Union have resumed normalized relations with the Ethiopian federal government—moves HRW deems premature and damaging to justice and long-term stability.
More than 1.2 million Ethiopians have fled to neighboring countries, exacerbating the Horn of Africa’s ongoing refugee crisis. The report also highlights the obstruction of humanitarian aid by Eritrean forces in Tigray, and the challenges faced in Amhara due to ongoing violence, communication blackouts, and attacks on humanitarian personnel.
“The current conditions in Western Tigray remain unsafe for voluntary and dignified returns,” the report states.
HRW also criticizes the suspension of international investigations by the UN and African Union, warning that Ethiopia’s internal transitional justice plan is met with mistrust by victims due to weak institutional credibility.
Mausi Segun, HRW’s Africa Director, stated:
“Ethiopia and Sudan are tragic examples of what happens when armed actors operate with impunity. Without regional and international pressure, these violations will persist, placing countless civilian lives at risk.”
While welcoming the UN Human Rights Council’s action on Sudan, HRW stresses that similar urgency is needed in Ethiopia. The report calls on the UN Security Council, African Union, and international actors to prioritize accountability and civilian protection in any future political settlement.
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