GENEVA, EVN (August 29) — The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed deep concern over the escalating human rights crisis in various regions of Ethiopia. Spokesperson Marta Hurtado released a press briefing addressing the worsening situation, particularly in the Amhara region.
Tensions have intensified in the Amhara region as clashes between the Ethiopian military and the regional Fano militia have erupted. The Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency on August 4, triggering a series of events that have escalated the situation significantly. According to data compiled by the UN Human Rights Office, at least 183 civilians have lost their lives due to clashes since July.
The state of emergency has granted authorities sweeping powers across the nation, including the ability to apprehend suspects without court orders, impose curfews, and prohibit public gatherings.
Reports indicate that over 1,000 individuals have been arrested under this law throughout Ethiopia. Many of those detained, believed to be young individuals of Amhara ethnic origin suspected of supporting the Fano militia, have faced mass arrests. House-to-house searches have been conducted since early August, accompanied by the detention of at least three Ethiopian journalists covering the Amhara region. Detainees have been held in makeshift detention facilities lacking basic amenities.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called upon the authorities to halt mass arrests and to ensure that any deprivation of liberty is subject to judicial review. Additionally, the release of those detained arbitrarily was urged, along with a demand for detention conditions to meet international norms and standards. The statement further appealed for unobstructed access to detention sites for oversight bodies such as the UN Human Rights Office and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission. The safety and protection of detainees’ human rights, including the right to a fair trial and procedural guarantees, were emphasized.
As federal forces reinforce their presence in specific towns and Fano militias reportedly retreat into rural areas, all involved parties were urged to cease killings and other violations. The UN emphasized the need for grievances to be addressed through dialogue and political processes.
Amid ongoing allegations of human rights violations and abuses, the situation in Oromia is also of considerable concern.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights emphasized the necessity of prompt, impartial, and effective investigations into all human rights violations and abuses occurring across various Ethiopian regions. Accountability for those responsible was underscored as imperative.
