Extract
[...] A grueling restructuring The massive population displacement resulting from the conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia, has severe economic implications, affecting infrastructure, livelihoods, and generating a major food crisis. In fact, the conflict has led to the general destruction of economic infrastructure, including roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals. This destruction hinders the circulation of goods and people, disrupts economic activities, and exacerbates the living conditions of local populations. Furthermore, many livelihoods, such as agriculture and livestock, have been destroyed or abandoned due to forced displacement, thus exacerbating the economic precariousness of affected communities. [...]
[...] The exacerbated ethnic tensions resulting from forced displacement may lead to new internal conflicts, thus putting the country's political stability at risk. For instance, clashes between rival ethnic groups, such as the Tigrayans and the Amharas, could intensify as populations move to new territories, fueling a cycle of intercommunal violence. A notable example of these clashes was observed in the city of Humera, a disputed border town between Tigray and Amhara3. In November 2020, violent clashes broke out between Tigrayan and Amhara forces for control of the city, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries on both sides. [...]
[...] In addition, the Ethiopian federal government has taken important measures to promote inclusive political dialogue. In this context, it has released opposition leaders held, marking a step towards national reconciliation and reconstruction. This initiative aims to establish a conducive climate for peaceful negotiations and a durable resolution of the conflict. However, it is worth noting that very few political refugees have chosen to return to the region, fearing that the escalation will resume. This shows that it is an extremely fragile treaty. II. [...]
[...] Forced displacements expose them to an increased risk of abuse, including sexual violence, economic exploitation, and forced labor. In addition, armed actors involved in the conflict may commit human rights violations against civilians, including extrajudicial executions, kidnappings, and acts of torture. These violations constitute serious crimes under international humanitarian law and human rights law, and require an urgent response from national authorities and the international community to bring perpetrators to justice and protect vulnerable populations. Amnesty International has notably highlighted the sexual assaults that have remained unpunished, in most known cases, by the Ethiopian government.10. B. [...]
[...] The arrival of new refugees from Tigray could exacerbate the pressure on social services, employment, and housing, which could fuel social and political tensions within the country. Thus, the conflict in Tigray has disrupted the efforts to consolidate peace in Ethiopia. The massive displacement of population makes it even more difficult to resolve the conflict peacefully and reconcile the different factions. The dispersion of populations and destruction of communities contribute to the fragilization of the peace process throughout the country, making the prospect of a durable resolution of the conflict more uncertain. It is therefore a transborder political crisis that is also internal. [...]
