Human Rights Watch’s 2024 report highlights a “dire” human rights situation in Ethiopia, citing conflict, civil society restrictions, and impunity for abuses. Key areas of concern include the Amhara region, where serious violations by government forces and Fano militias have been reported, as well as ongoing abuses in Tigray by Eritrean forces. The report calls attention to the alarming humanitarian crisis and the government’s repressive measures against dissent.
In 2024, Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported that Ethiopia’s human rights situation has deteriorated to a “dire” state, marked by widespread conflict, limitations on civil society, and a culture of impunity surrounding human rights abuses. The organization’s annual report underscored serious violations committed by government forces and various armed groups throughout conflict-affected regions.
The Amhara region emerged as a focal point of concern, with HRW documenting what it referred to as “war crimes” perpetrated by both government troops and Fano militias. Specific allegations included extrajudicial killings, sexual violence, and torture, particularly against civilians. A grave incident was reported on January 29, when military forces allegedly executed numerous civilians in Merawi town.
Fano militias were noted for their violent acts against civilians, including unlawful arrests and attacks on civilian structures. Additionally, the humanitarian crisis intensified in Amhara, where violence reached alarming levels; eight aid workers were tragically killed in 2024, prompting the UN to reconsider its operations due to escalating threats.
In Tigray, HRW cited ongoing misconduct by Eritrean forces, which included acts of rape, sexual violence, and looting. The report also pointed to an uptick in kidnappings nationwide, particularly the abduction of over 100 individuals in Oromia, most of whom were university students, in July.
HRW reported that Ethiopia’s extended state of emergency, in place from February to June, facilitated mass detentions and movement restrictions. Journalists, opposition members, and activists were especially targeted, with Amnesty International documenting the detention of hundreds in Amhara, including high-ranking officials.
The report revealed that restricted media freedoms forced many journalists into self-censorship, exile, or harassment. HRW indicated that since 2020, 54 journalists had sought refuge outside the country. Civil society groups also suffered under pressure, with reports of harassment against the Ethiopian Human Rights Council in May, and several organizations were suspended in November.
Despite the government’s introduction of a transitional justice policy in April, HRW criticized it for lack of transparency and independent oversight. The report emphasized that accountability for both past and ongoing human rights abuses has been glaringly inadequate. HRW remarked that the Ethiopian authorities continued to dismiss or minimize the allegations of violations against civilians.
Furthermore, HRW expressed concern that Ethiopia’s international partners have normalized relationships with the government, overlooking the ongoing human rights violations.
Ethiopia has faced escalating conflicts and humanitarian challenges, particularly in regions such as Amhara and Tigray, where government forces, militias, and Eritrean troops have caused widespread suffering. Reports from various human rights organizations reveal a pattern of serious abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and sexual violence. The situation is exacerbated by stringent government measures that restrict civil liberties and independent media, alongside a continuing climate of impunity for perpetrators of these abuses.
In summary, Ethiopia’s human rights landscape in 2024 is marked by severe violations arising from conflict and government repression. HRW’s report sheds light on the alarming situation in conflict-affected regions, particularly Amhara and Tigray, where both state and non-state actors have committed grave abuses. Despite some governmental initiatives for accountability, the lack of transparency and continued impunity remain significant concerns for human rights in Ethiopia moving forward.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
