April 11, 2025
By: Getahun Tsegaye
Staff Reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has raised concerns over the safety and wellbeing of internally displaced people (IDPs) who returned to their original homes in Tigray, following the Pretoria Peace Agreement signed in November 2022.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the EHRC said that many of those who had returned—particularly to areas in Southern and Northwestern zones such as Raya Alamata, Alamata town, Tselemt, Upper Tselemt, and Ma’y Tsebri—are experiencing renewed insecurity, persecution, and continued violations of their rights.
“Some returnees have been forced to flee again,” the commission noted, pointing to ongoing instability and a lack of guarantees for safety. “The situation is especially troubling in locations where returnees are unable to access basic needs or services and remain in a state of limbo.”
The report, based on monitoring conducted between August 25 and September 6, 2024, found that most returnees have not been able to go back to their former jobs. Many are struggling to find alternative work due to persistent insecurity, and some face restrictions on movement. Others are grappling with severe food shortages and lack of essential supplies.
“These are not just logistical challenges. They are serious human rights concerns,” the EHRC said.
The commission further said that in several of the communities assessed, healthcare and education facilities remain destroyed or nonfunctional due to damage from the conflict. Returnees are also unable to obtain key civil documentation, including identification cards, which hampers their access to services and protection.
The report warned that the failure to rebuild civilian institutions after the conflict has left returnees without access to justice or basic services. “Without a functioning civil administration, even proving residency becomes impossible,” it stated.
EHRC Commissioner Birhanu Adelo urged authorities and humanitarian partners to act swiftly and collaboratively. “We must ensure that returnees are safe and can live with dignity in the places they call home,” he said. “This includes immediate food assistance, restoration of public services, and legal support to reclaim homes and properties.”
The Commission also called for the urgent rehabilitation of schools and health centers, provision of civil services, and full restoration of law and order. “Peace cannot be sustainable if it does not come with justice, restoration, and the full protection of rights,” the EHRC emphasized.
As Ethiopia continues to recover from the devastating two-year conflict in the north, the EHRC urged all stakeholders to prioritize long-term security and reconciliation through inclusive dialogue and peace-building initiatives.
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