Ethiopia has endured several civil wars; the Tigray conflict being the most recent war that continued for two years. The weapons and explosive remnants of the war caused civilians to suffer from restricted healthcare facilities, movement, schools, homes, and fertile land. “Thousands of people have been displaced, essential infrastructure has been destroyed or damaged, and weapon contamination has reached very concerning levels in some areas.” The everyday lives of Ethiopians have been disrupted due to the conflict with the Tigray region, however, the process of rebuilding and aid has been supported and focused on.
Overall, the humanitarian process has been improving due to the ICRC’s (International Committee of the Red Cross) efforts. More routes throughout Ethiopia have been opened, allowing better access for civilians to reach difficult areas and receive aid. Opportunities for people to flee from the country or accept refugees have heightened as well. Authorities are focusing on a peace agreement, which attempts to find solutions for peace and reparations, along with accountability and truth. In order to deal with internal displacement, the Ethiopian government has prioritized life-saving humanitarian action. “In 2021, Ethiopia ratified the Kampala Convention and initiated steps to work towards a comprehensive framework to guide responses to internal displacement.”
On a specific note, sexual violence has been another human rights issue the Ethiopian government faces. Several solutions have been put in place to put in place to protect the citizens. In Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia regions, one-stop centers are established to assist victims of sexual violence. They include medications, dignity kids, and food. The health staff there is trained in the clinical management of rape. There are safe houses throughout these regions to provide support for survivors. Along with institutions, police officers and other legal figures are trained. “More than 430 police officers, investigators, and prosecutors have participated in dedicated trainings on the investigations of sexual violence and international humanitarian law.”
The ICRC in Ethiopia.
These steps of rebuilding the nation start with supporting the people. ICRC hopes to see a steady increase in humanitarian aid as its efforts continue to expand throughout the country of Ethiopia.