The UNHCR Global Appeal 2023 sheds light on the escalating displacement crisis in Ethiopia amidst ongoing complex and protracted conflicts. The East and Horn of Africa region has witnessed a significant surge in forcibly displaced individuals, with Ethiopia hosting over 5 million refugees, asylum-seekers, and internally displaced persons in 2023. This sharp increase demonstrates the mounting challenges faced by both the displaced populations and the Ethiopian government, with UNHCR estimating a staggering 117 million forcibly displaced individuals globally in the same year.
Historically, Ethiopia has a long-standing history of hosting refugees, dating back to the Ogaden crisis in the 1970s. The country’s commitment to providing sanctuary and support to those fleeing conflict and persecution underscores its importance as a regional hub for refugees. However, the current influx of displaced individuals poses unprecedented challenges to Ethiopia’s capacity to cope with the scale of the crisis.
The UNHCR report emphasizes key priorities in Ethiopia, including facilitating access to territory and registration for those escaping violence, delivering essential protection and assistance to address the basic needs of the displaced, and pursuing durable solutions such as voluntary repatriation, local integration, and resettlement.
Furthermore, UNHCR is collaborating closely with development partners to tackle the root causes of displacement and enhance the resilience of host communities in Ethiopia. This holistic approach aims not only to address immediate humanitarian needs but also to establish sustainable solutions that can break the cycle of displacement in the long term.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, underscores the critical nature of the situation in Ethiopia, where ongoing conflicts continue to displace thousands daily. Resolving the displacement crisis necessitates a comprehensive effort involving humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding actors. Grandi reiterates UNHCR’s dedication to collaborating with the Ethiopian government and partners to seek enduring resolutions for the millions affected by these crises.
Amidst a challenging global displacement landscape, the UNHCR Global Appeal 2023 stresses the pressing need for sustained international backing and collaboration to address the unfolding crisis in Ethiopia and other conflict-affected regions. The call for comprehensive support and cooperation is essential to mitigating the dire circumstances faced by displaced populations worldwide.
