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Introduction

The War in the Amhara Region of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia began in April 2023 between

the Amhara Fano militia and the Federal government defense force. The conflict started when the national de-

fense force raided the Amhara Region to disarm the Amhara Special Forces, comprising elites and members of

the community. This action was perceived as a conspiracy by the federal government to victimize the Amhara

people, leading to resistance from local armed forces and a series of protests in Gondar, Kobo, Sekota, Weldiya,

and other cities on 9 April.

The state of emergency declared in the Amhara region, along with the regional government’s call for federal

government military intervention, has further exacerbated insecurity. This has resulted in mass arrests, extra-

judicial killings, internet blockages, and disruptions to basic services becoming the norm.

The recent mass killing in the Amhara region of Ethiopia by the national defense force has sent shockwaves

throughout the country and the international community. This paper aims to analyze the implications of this

tragic event on peace and stability in Ethiopia, as well as the broader implications for human rights and security

in the region.

Background

Last week, a mass killing took place in the town of Merawi, resulting in dozens of deaths and numerous inju-

ries. The incident occurred on February 01, 2024, starting after midnight, when the Federal Defense Force in

Merawi town committed mass killings by moving from house to house during searches. Eyewitnesses men-

tioned that many dead bodies were seen across the road, killed by the National Defense Force.
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Local rights groups and hospital reports suggest that the National Defense Force targeted civilians in a brutal

and indiscriminate manner, raising serious concerns about accountability and the protection of human rights

in Ethiopia. The sources estimate the death toll to exceed 180, with fears of over 200 casualties.

The US ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, called for independent human rights monitors’ access and an

impartial investigation to ensure justice for the perpetrators. He emphasized dialogue over violence as the only

viable path forward.

These killings occurred days before the House of Peoples Representatives extended the six-month state of

emergency declared in August 2023 due to escalating conflict in the region. Neither federal nor regional gov-

ernments have issued statements on the incident. A secretly recorded speech of an Amhara regional state offi-

cial revealed his attempt to deny the incident and blame the victims.

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Implications for Peace and Stability

1. Ethnic Tensions: The mass killing in Amhara has exacerbated existing ethnic tensions in Ethiopia, particu-

larly in the Amhara region. The attack has deepened divisions between different ethnic groups and threatens to

further destabilize the country.

2. Security Concerns: The incident raises questions about the ability of the national defense force and the gov-

ernment to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. The lack of protection for civilians in this case high-

lights a broader issue of insecurity and violence in the region.

3. Reconciliation Efforts: The mass killing underscores the urgent need for reconciliation and peacebuilding

efforts in Ethiopia. The government must work towards addressing the root causes of violence and conflict, as

well as promoting dialogue and understanding among different communities.

4. International Response: The international community has condemned the mass killing in Amhara and called

for accountability for those responsible. The incident has drawn attention to human rights violations in Ethio-

pia and may lead to increased pressure on the government to address these issues.

Conclusion

The mass killing in the Amhara region by the national defense force has significant implications for peace and

stability in Ethiopia. The incident highlights the fragility of peace in the region, as well as the urgent need for

accountability, reconciliation, and dialogue among different communities. The government must take decisive

action to address the root causes of violence and ensure the protection of all its citizens to prevent further

bloodshed and suffering. Failure to do so risks further destabilization and conflict, with devastating conse-

quences for the people of Ethiopia.

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Martin Luther King Jr., the iconic civil rights leader, once famously said, “Injustice anywhere is a

threat to justice everywhere.” These powerful words encapsulate King’s unwavering commitment

to fighting against all forms of oppression and discrimination.

Throughout his life, King championed the cause of equality and justice for all, regardless of race,

religion, or social status. He believed that when one group of people is marginalized or oppressed,

it undermines the very foundation of justice for all individuals.

King’s message resonates today as much as it did during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. In

a world where injustices continue to persist, his words serve as a reminder that we must stand up

against inequality wherever we see it, for the sake of justice and humanity as a whole.

As we reflect on King’s legacy, let us remember his call to action and strive to create a more just

and equitable society for all. Because, as he so eloquently put it, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to

justice everywhere.”