UNHCR reaffirms commitment to support the humanitarian response in conflict affected areas of Ethiopia

Addis Ababa February 8, 2023 (FBC) – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, reaffirmed the commitment of his agency to support the humanitarian response for refugees and internally displaced people in Ethiopia and work towards achieving long-term solutions, including for those displaced by drought and the impact of climate change, According to UNHCR.

“While the last few years have been incredibly difficult for many of those affected by the conflict, I was very encouraged to see the progress made towards peace in northern Ethiopia and to witness all the efforts made in getting more aid to the people who lost everything,” Grandi said at the conclusion of a three-day visit to Ethiopia, where he met with senior government officials and displaced communities including Eritrean refugees.

Since the peace deal in November last year, the UN Refugee Agency, and other partners have been able to step up the delivery of much-needed aid including medicines, shelter materials, clothes, household items and blankets.

“Progress is visible on the ground.  People are now getting assistance. Some have started to go back to their homes, but much more needs to be done to support the reconstruction and recovery efforts in the Afar, Amhara and Tigray regions,” Grandi added. “This will be critical to improve their living conditions and work towards lasting solutions, including voluntary returns to their communities.”

During his visit, the High Commissioner met with President Sahle-Work Zewde, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Demeke Mekonnen and other officials, whom he thanked for Ethiopia’s continued hospitality towards refugees.

“Many other countries would have chosen to close their doors while grappling with conflict and climate change, but the Government and people of Ethiopia continued to generously welcome and host thousands of refugees from South Sudan and Somalia,” said Grandi.

In 2022, UNHCR’s programmes in Ethiopia were half-funded, making it one of the 12 most underfunded UNHCR operations globally.