Canada has reinitiated military co-operation with Ethiopia despite prior allegations of genocide during the Tigray war. This decision, announced following a meeting with Ethiopia’s Defence Minister, aims for non-lethal collaboration. Critics express concerns over ongoing civilian casualties and the lack of accountability for the Ethiopian military’s actions, suggesting ethical implications for Canada’s involvement.
Canada has decided to resume its military co-operation with Ethiopia, despite previous allegations of genocide and other severe human rights violations during the Tigray conflict. The Canadian government had initially suspended defense collaboration three years ago due to these allegations, particularly concerning the killings of thousands of civilians by the Ethiopian military. Now, the country is reinstating Ethiopia into its Military Training and Co-operation Program (MTCP) for focused non-lethal assistance.
The restoration of this military collaboration is guided by indications of Ethiopia’s initial progress regarding peace negotiations and human rights accountability, particularly related to the ongoing conflicts in Amhara and Oromia regions. An internal memo highlighted that this move may serve as a strategic entry point for Canada to address human rights issues while enhancing military influence in the geopolitically significant region.
Despite the resumption, there remain significant concerns regarding the Ethiopian military’s ongoing actions, including civilian casualties from airstrikes. Reports noted a recent drone strike in Amhara attributed to Ethiopian forces that resulted in multiple civilian deaths, illustrating the precarious situation. While airstrikes have reportedly decreased, they continue to pose risk to civilians.
In reaction to the military partnership’s revival, some Canadian officials, including Andrée-Anne Poulin from the Department of National Defence, asserted that the collaboration would encourage positive developments within Ethiopian armed forces. However, critics, including former justice minister Allan Rock, condemned Canada’s decision. They argue that resuming military ties is inappropriate unless there is proven accountability for past atrocities. Rock emphasized the need for international legal action against the Ethiopian government for failing to prevent genocidal acts during the Tigray conflict.
Human rights advocates, such as lawyer Sarah Teich, expressed alarm regarding Canada’s renewed military engagement. They point out that evidence of ongoing violations and a lack of justice for past crimes undermine any justification for co-operation. Kyle Matthews, executive director of the Montreal Institute for Global Security, cautioned that any training provided should strictly focus on adhering to international humanitarian laws and protecting civilian lives in the context of Ethiopia’s multifaceted conflicts.
In summary, Canada’s decision to resume military co-operation with Ethiopia has sparked considerable debate and concern. While the Canadian government cites initial progress in human rights and peace efforts as justifications, critics warn of the ongoing civilian casualties and absence of accountability for past atrocities. As Ethiopia faces multiple internal conflicts, the push for military collaboration demands careful consideration to ensure that Canadian efforts do not inadvertently support further human rights violations.
Original Source: www.theglobeandmail.com
