Human Rights Watch urges Ethiopia to protect Sudanese refugees fleeing war, calling attention to violence they face even after relocating to camps. Reports indicate abuses by local militias and security forces, prompting HRW to demand adherence to international law and improved conditions for these vulnerable populations.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called upon the Ethiopian government to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard Sudanese refugees who have fled their homeland due to ongoing warfare. Since April 2023, a significant influx of Sudanese individuals seeking refuge in Ethiopia has faced alarming levels of violence and further displacement. Initially, many refugees found temporary shelter in two camps located in the Amhara region, where they were subjected to fatal violence, physical assaults, and abductions perpetrated by local armed groups and militias. In response to the escalating violence, government officials relocated thousands of these refugees to a new camp in July. However, recent intensifications in conflict between governmental forces and the Fano militia have further jeopardized the safety of these vulnerable individuals. Laetitia Bader, Deputy Africa Director at HRW, emphasized, “These refugees have escaped horrific abuses in Sudan and came to Ethiopia seeking safety, not further threats to their lives. The Ethiopian government must ensure their protection.” HRW has published a report derived from interviews with both refugees and humanitarian workers, illustrating the dire circumstances surrounding these individuals. Reports indicate that armed groups have specifically targeted refugees, while Ethiopian security forces have also been accused of perpetrating various abuses, including physical assaults and coercive repatriations to Sudan. One refugee recounted, “I was beaten five times in the ribs. My children were crying. They told us if we didn’t want to stay in Ethiopia, we should go back to Sudan.” The organization underscored that forcibly returning refugees to Sudan constitutes a violation of international law, alongside any assaults on civilians and refugee settlements. HRW has urged all combatants involved in the conflict to uphold human rights standards and facilitate the unobstructed distribution of humanitarian aid. In light of these developments, Bader stated, “The Ethiopian government must uphold its obligations to protect refugees and relocate them away from the conflict zone. The international community needs to step up and provide increased support to ensure these refugees receive the urgent assistance they need.”
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to widespread instability and violence, prompting thousands of civilians to flee to neighboring nations such as Ethiopia in search of safety. However, upon arrival, many refugees have encountered additional challenges, including violence inflicted by local militias and insufficient protection from government forces. This serious humanitarian crisis has drawn the attention of international organizations like Human Rights Watch, highlighting the need for urgent intervention and support for the affected populations. The situation underscores the obligation of host nations to protect refugees and the critical role of the international community in addressing their needs.
In conclusion, Human Rights Watch has raised urgent concerns regarding the safety of Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia, calling on the Ethiopian government to fulfill its duty to protect them. The organization has highlighted reports of violence, abuse, and potential violations of international law involving forced repatriation. It is imperative for the Ethiopian government and the international community to respond promptly to ensure the well-being and safety of these vulnerable individuals who have already endured unimaginable horrors in their home country.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
