Since November 2020, there has been an ongoing conflict in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. This conflict has caused an extremely dire humanitarian crisis that is often referred to as a genocide. To comprehend this situation more clearly it is important to look at the past of the region, how it affects the population who live there, and how we can help.
History of Conflict in Tigray The conflict between Ethiopia and Tigray has been going on for centuries and has been entangled with culture, religion, and politics. The most recent time of tensions began in 1991, when the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) declared independence from Ethiopia after overthrowing its military-ruled government. In response, Ethiopian forces invaded Tigray and enforced martial law on the citizens. This period of tension culminated in an armed war between TPLF forces and Ethiopian troops in 1998. The conflict resulted in thousands of deaths as well as millions of refugees fleeing their homes.
Impact on People Living in Tigray
The ongoing violence has taken a huge cost to the people in Tigray. As per reports by international aid organizations, over two million people are displaced by the fighting while hundreds more have been killed or injured by air strikes or other types of violence. In addition, reports suggest that many civilians have been targeted for ethnic cleansing based on their religion or political beliefs. There are also food shortages that are widespread since crops haven’t been capable of being grown or harvested due to the conflict.
How Can We Help? There are many ways to help those affected by this tragedy. The most effective way is by making donations to international aid organizations such as Doctors Without Borders who are providing medical care and food aids to those affected by the conflict. Additionally, raising awareness about this issue is vital to ensure that governments all over the world will engage in a legal process against those who commit these human rights violations. In the end, we need to urge our elected officials to take concrete steps to end this conflict in the end by engaging diplomatically with the leaders from both sides of the conflict.
Conclusion The ongoing tragedy in Ethiopia’s Tigray region should not be ignored or forgotten anytime soon. It is vital to continue to raise awareness about this issue in order that we can exert pressure on governments all over the world to take swift and decisive action against those who perpetuate the violence against innocent civilians. Furthermore, it is crucial to give whatever funds we can spare to ensure aid organizations can be able to provide essential medical treatment and food aid to those affected by the current crisis. Only then will justice be served for all parties affected by this tragic human rights issue.
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