By Patricia Jjuuko / GICJ
The International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia submitted its first report to the Human Rights Council (HRC), which discusses violations committed in the country that amounts to war crimes and crimes against humanity during the 51st regular session. On September 22nd, 2022, Ms. Kaari Betty Murungi, the Chairperson of the Commission, in her presentation, stated that after five attempts to end hostilities, fighting resumed in August 2022 between the Federal Government of Ethiopia and its allies, and forces backing the Tigray authorities. Ms. Murungi confirmed that ongoing violence has expanded beyond Tigray to other areas of the country and risks spreading beyond Ethiopia’s borders, with consequences for peace in the Horn of Africa.
The Chairperson confirmed that an in-depth investigation into three selected incidences and two thematic areas was carried out. The incidents examined include the shelling of Mekelle on 28th, November 2020, and subsequent attacks on civilians, the killings in Kobo and Chenna in late August and early September 2021, and a drone strike on a camp for internally displaced persons in Dedebit on 7th, January 2022. The Commission examined selected themes of rape, sexual violence, and the denial and obstruction of humanitarian aid and access. The Commission expressed concern over the investigation's findings, which reflect profound polarisation and hatred along ethnic lines in Ethiopia. This has created a cycle of extreme violence and retribution which is a threat of further pronounced atrocity crimes.
Geneva International Centre for Justice (GICJ) is deeply concerned about the Commission’s findings. We strongly denounce the abuses and human rights violations carried out in Ethiopia which amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. GICJ calls on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and end all violations and abuses of international human rights and humanitarian law, notably against civilians.
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