Press Briefing: Two Years of War in Ethiopia

This event took place on November 1, 2022.

Friday, November 4, marks two years since civil war broke out in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region. Civilians are facing widespread displacement, atrocities, human rights violations, and potential famine. The conflict risks spiraling out of control following the resumption of fighting on August 24 after a five-month “ceasefire.” 

Despite the start of peace talks between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray authority in South Africa this week, the Tigray regional capital, Mekelle, could fall to the Ethiopia, Eritrean military and Amhara Special Force, at any hour.

Refugees International hosted a press briefing on what must be done to stave off the worst for civilians trapped in the crosshairs of the conflict as humanitarian access remains limited. Refugees International Vice President for Programs and Policy Hardin Lang moderated. Refugees International Senior Advocate for East and Southern Africa Abdullahi Boru Halakhe and founding member and president of the Tigray Human Rights Forum Dr. Solomon Mezgebu offered commentary.

Cover Photo: A man walks among the remains of his destroyed house in the village of Bisober in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Photo Credit: EDUARDO SOTERAS/AFP via Getty Images.