EHRC recalls its public statement of May 15, 2022 in which it expressed concern about reported military confrontations between Tigrayan forces and the Government; noting the gross human rights and humanitarian law violations that have been documented in the context of the conflict in Afar, Amhara, and Tigray, with the civilian population bearing the direct and indirect effects of the war.
Following months of a ceasefire, EHRC is deeply concerned about the renewal of hostilities as civilian populations in the affected areas still continue to suffer from recent trauma, loss of loved ones and livelihoods, access to essential services, and await justice and healing.
EHRC’s recent consultations with affected populations in Afar and Amhara Regions including with victims of gross human rights violations as well as remote monitoring of the situation in Tigray reveal that the population in these regions lived in perpetual dread of war. Civilians also indicated that their primary need is peace and security. They believe peace and reconciliation is possible “if parties to the conflict genuinely entered into dialogue and a diverse range of national actors including traditional and religious leaders, and women were involved”.
EHRC calls on all parties to the conflict to cease hostilities and resume dialogue for a peaceful resolution of the conflict and reiterates its call for all parties to the conflict to uphold their obligations to preserve the lives, security, physical and moral integrity, and dignity of all civilians affected by armed conflict.
EHRC further calls on civil society organisations, the media, traditional and religious leaders, the international community, the United Nations, the African Union and sub-regional organisations to redouble efforts towards an immediate cessation of hostilities; facilitate dialogue and ensure protection of the human rights of all civilians in the affected regions.
