Recommendations & Conclusions
73 items
1
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Conflict is a key cause of the current humanitarian crisis in Tigray. Continued fighting is hampering efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to those in need.
Government response AI summary
The government outlines extensive diplomatic efforts, including meetings with the Ethiopian Prime Minister, visits by special envoys, engagement with allies, and raising the issue at the UN Security Council and G7, to address the conflict, humanitarian access, and human rights.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
2
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
We welcome the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary’s wholehearted acceptance that the situation in Tigray is an early test of the UK’s commitment to the principles and approach of the UK as a ‘force for good’ as set out in the Government’s Integrated Review. The Tigray crisis will be a …
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We welcome the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary’s wholehearted acceptance that the situation in Tigray is an early test of the UK’s commitment to the principles and approach of the UK as a ‘force for good’ as set out in the Government’s Integrated Review. The Tigray crisis will be a test of the FCDO’s desire to combine ‘diplomacy and development’ and to establish an integrated approach to conflict and instability. Failing this early test could damage the credibility of the UK’s new strategy.
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Government response AI summary
The government details ongoing diplomatic efforts to raise human rights issues and calls for an end to violence and protection of civilians. They commit to supporting UN investigations into atrocities in Tigray to ensure accountability and will continue to raise concerns at the UN Security …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
3
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
We urge the UK Government to redouble its efforts to seek an end to the conflict, using all the diplomatic means at its disposal. It should work multilaterally through organisations such as the UN and the African Union, and bilaterally with its partners, the Ethiopian Government, neighbouring states, and representatives …
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We urge the UK Government to redouble its efforts to seek an end to the conflict, using all the diplomatic means at its disposal. It should work multilaterally through organisations such as the UN and the African Union, and bilaterally with its partners, the Ethiopian Government, neighbouring states, and representatives of the parties to the conflict, to foster peace through an inclusive political settlement.
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Government response AI summary
The government responds by detailing its support for joint human rights investigations in Tigray and engagement with the African Union on inquiries, but does not address the recommendation to redouble diplomatic efforts to seek an end to the conflict and foster a political settlement.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
4
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
We are appalled by the distressing reports of human rights abuses, gender-based violence and sexual violence in Tigray. The horrors that have been inflicted on people and their suffering during this conflict are unimaginable, and we are particularly saddened that, once again, women and girls are being targeted. It is …
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We are appalled by the distressing reports of human rights abuses, gender-based violence and sexual violence in Tigray. The horrors that have been inflicted on people and their suffering during this conflict are unimaginable, and we are particularly saddened that, once again, women and girls are being targeted. It is essential that the fighting ends as soon as possible. The services needed to support those who have suffered so terribly must be restored and expanded to meet present and future needs without further delay. It is crucial that these crimes are investigated and that those responsible face justice. We are particularly saddened by the targeting and killing of aid workers.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on FCDO staff training for atrocity prevention and existing reporting mechanisms for human rights violations, but does not directly address the committee's call for an end to fighting, restoration of services, or investigation and justice for crimes in Tigray.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
5
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Rejected
We welcome the statement by the G7 group condemning the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate shelling and forced displacement of civilian populations. We recommend that the UK Government uses its long- standing diplomatic and development relationship with Ethiopia to ensure the Ethiopian Government acts on its responsibility …
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We welcome the statement by the G7 group condemning the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate shelling and forced displacement of civilian populations. We recommend that the UK Government uses its long- standing diplomatic and development relationship with Ethiopia to ensure the Ethiopian Government acts on its responsibility to protect its population from violence, and works to ensure the immediate protection of communities in the region from human rights abuses, including sexual violence. The UK Government must use all diplomatic means possible to remind the Government of Ethiopia that, under the principle of the responsibility to protect, it is responsible for protecting its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. The UK Government should bear in mind its obligations to take appropriate action in line with the UN Genocide Convention should the Ethiopian Government fail to take the actions it needs to take to protect its people.
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Government response AI summary
The government states it does not share the committee's assessment and highlights ongoing efforts to press for humanitarian access and withdrawal of Eritrean forces, but does not commit to the specific diplomatic actions recommended regarding R2P or the UN Genocide Convention.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
6
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
In line with the recent G7 statement on the importance of an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into crimes reported in Tigray, the UK Government should work with the appropriate authorities to enable access for independent monitors to 4 The humanitarian situation in Tigray Tigray to ensure that evidence of …
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In line with the recent G7 statement on the importance of an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into crimes reported in Tigray, the UK Government should work with the appropriate authorities to enable access for independent monitors to 4 The humanitarian situation in Tigray Tigray to ensure that evidence of the crimes that have been committed is secured and to bring those who are responsible to justice. The Government should continue to press for clarity on how the joint investigations by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights will work.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on ensuring general humanitarian access and safety, and reducing conflict, but does not directly address the recommendation for the UK government to work towards enabling access for independent monitors for crime investigations or pressing for clarity on joint investigations in Tigray.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
7
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
Drawing upon lessons learned from other atrocities, we recommend that FCDO arranges atrocity prevention training for staff at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa and neighbouring posts as a matter of urgency and designates a named atrocity prevention lead. Staff in these posts should have clear lines of communication to …
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Drawing upon lessons learned from other atrocities, we recommend that FCDO arranges atrocity prevention training for staff at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa and neighbouring posts as a matter of urgency and designates a named atrocity prevention lead. Staff in these posts should have clear lines of communication to colleagues in Whitehall so they can quickly raise and respond to concerns about human rights abuses. Furthermore, the FCDO should embed an atrocity prevention strategy in its updated country strategy for Ethiopia and neighbouring states. (Paragraph 23) Humanitarian needs
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Government response AI summary
The government's response focuses on humanitarian needs, aid redirection, and donor coordination for the Tigray response, completely failing to address the recommendation for atrocity prevention training, a designated lead, or an embedded strategy.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
8
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities in need in Tigray and neighbouring regions. These efforts should …
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Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities in need in Tigray and neighbouring regions. These efforts should be undertaken in concert with diplomatic efforts to end the fighting and find a peaceful, inclusive political solution to the crisis.
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Government response AI summary
The government accepts the recommendation, stating it will use all necessary political levers, support Security Council initiatives, and consider further bilateral and multilateral opportunities to improve humanitarian access and reduce conflict intensity in Tigray.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
9
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs are not met will grow as the conflict continues. In …
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We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs are not met will grow as the conflict continues. In addition, as humanitarian agencies reach parts of Tigray that have so far been inaccessible, they will discover many more cases of unmet need, creating a widening gap between the level of need and the provision that has been made.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the growing needs and states it will work through the multilateral system to address the restoration of basic services and continue to support the humanitarian response where access is possible, but highlights that insecurity prevents full resumption of services.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
10
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also recommend that, as the situation on the ground becomes clearer, …
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We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also recommend that, as the situation on the ground becomes clearer, the FCDO assesses whether its current humanitarian contribution is adequate to ensure that the basic needs of communities are met.
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Government response AI summary
The government response outlines its priorities for ending hostilities and supporting political settlement and reconstruction planning, but does not address the specific recommendations for FCDO to monitor OCHA reports or assess its humanitarian contributions.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
11
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
Food security is a crucial component of the emergency response and we are deeply concerned by reports that hunger is being used in the conflict to achieve political ends. With the FCDO having appointed a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs, the UK is well-placed to lead international …
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Food security is a crucial component of the emergency response and we are deeply concerned by reports that hunger is being used in the conflict to achieve political ends. With the FCDO having appointed a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs, the UK is well-placed to lead international efforts in not only condemning these actions, but coordinating action against them. We recommend that, in accordance with UN resolution 2417 (2018), the UK Government should explore whether to use the mechanisms of the UN Security Council to press for penalties such as sanctions against actors found to be obstructing the delivery of essential humanitarian supplies and using starvation as a weapon of war.
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Government response AI summary
The government states its total financial support and general diplomatic engagement, but does not address the recommendation to explore using UN Security Council mechanisms for sanctions against those obstructing aid or using starvation as a weapon of war.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
12
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. The humanitarian situation in Tigray 5 Following this, the restoration of basic services such as schools and hospitals will be key in both …
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The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. The humanitarian situation in Tigray 5 Following this, the restoration of basic services such as schools and hospitals will be key in both responding to current needs and starting the path towards post-conflict reconstruction. Health and social services are critical. Many of those who have suffered trauma and violence will need specialist support, and health services are essential if communities in Tigray are to cope with the ongoing pandemic and avoid the worst of its secondary impacts. Without access to education, children will grow up without the skills and knowledge needed to ensure the ongoing development of their communities. The restoration of services such as banking and markets will help to alleviate some of the pressure on the people in Tigray. After such severe and sustained disruption, local governance structures will require significant support if they are to restore these services for affected communities.
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Government response AI summary
The government's response described the FCDO's general methods for conflict analysis and resolution and the role of its new conflict centre, but did not specifically address the observed needs for humanitarian assistance or the restoration of basic services in Tigray.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
13
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted in Part
We recommend that the FCDO applies its learnings from other crises and works with other donors to create a plan of action that is properly funded for the restoration of basic services to Tigray. In creating this plan, it should engage with local communities and work closely with regional authorities …
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We recommend that the FCDO applies its learnings from other crises and works with other donors to create a plan of action that is properly funded for the restoration of basic services to Tigray. In creating this plan, it should engage with local communities and work closely with regional authorities and other donors to identify a hierarchy of needs. It should also identify long-term development challenges likely to be created by this conflict (such as food security) and take proactive action to prevent future problems and to have contingency plans in place should these challenges arise.
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Government response AI summary
The government commits to working through the multilateral system with other donors to address the restoration of basic services, drawing on lessons from other crises. However, it notes that insecurity currently prevents full resumption of services.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
14
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Deferred
As the conflict continues, there is a risk the violence in Tigray could destabilise the broader region, spreading instability to already fragile neighbouring states such as Sudan. There is a significant risk that the conflict could become protracted or escalate, creating a devastating long-term impact for communities in Tigray and …
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As the conflict continues, there is a risk the violence in Tigray could destabilise the broader region, spreading instability to already fragile neighbouring states such as Sudan. There is a significant risk that the conflict could become protracted or escalate, creating a devastating long-term impact for communities in Tigray and hindering broader regional development. Using existing expertise from the Stabilisation Unit, the FCDO should create a clear road map for inclusive post-conflict reconstruction in Tigray that proactively addresses development needs and embeds peacebuilding within the FCDO’s work in the region.
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Government response AI summary
The government states that while detailed reconstruction planning is premature due to the dynamic situation, some initial consideration of reconstruction and recovery planning will begin at an early stage.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
15
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
A failure to adequately resource the response to this crisis increases the risk of a ripple effect of instability throughout the region. The failure to support the communities of Tigray, combined with the lack of an inclusive political settlement, compromises hard-won development gains in Ethiopia, and has the potential to …
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A failure to adequately resource the response to this crisis increases the risk of a ripple effect of instability throughout the region. The failure to support the communities of Tigray, combined with the lack of an inclusive political settlement, compromises hard-won development gains in Ethiopia, and has the potential to jeopardise the broader development and stability gains funded through UK aid programmes throughout the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.
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Government response AI summary
The FCDO details its established methods for identifying, analysing, and responding to regional conflict and instability, stating that a newly established conflict centre will bolster existing capabilities and improve effectiveness. They describe ongoing processes using embassy insights and conflict expert analysis to inform policy and …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
16
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
With Ethiopia currently the UK’s largest bilateral recipient of ODA, we are surprised that the UK Government has not allocated more financial assistance to the humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray.
Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the committee's surprise by stating total UK support to the crisis is £47.7m since November 2020, and that they keep their level of support under review while also engaging through diplomatic and political channels.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
17
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
To pre-empt and avoid further humanitarian crises, the UK Government should ensure its package of humanitarian assistance to the conflict in Tigray provides sufficient financial and technical resources to support communities in urgent need. We recommend that the FCDO builds a comprehensive picture of the sources of conflict and instability …
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To pre-empt and avoid further humanitarian crises, the UK Government should ensure its package of humanitarian assistance to the conflict in Tigray provides sufficient financial and technical resources to support communities in urgent need. We recommend that the FCDO builds a comprehensive picture of the sources of conflict and instability in East Africa, the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region using the reports and analysis from Posts in the region to synthesise a broader picture, drawing on and applying the expertise of the new Conflict Prevention Hub. The Government should use this analysis to adjust the allocation of the UK’s resources in the region to help prevent conflicts from spreading and destabilising more of the region. (Paragraph 70) 6 The humanitarian situation in Tigray Conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region ETHIOPIA Access Map - Tigray Region As of 23 March 2021 Badime ERITREA Ethiopia ERITREA Adi H A a d g i e H r a a g y eray S A e d y y e a m b t o i Gerhu S E e g rn e a la y Zala Ambesa Dawuhan S U D A N M M a a y y c K a a d d r r a a Humera Adaba B y ae W ke K r a e ft s a t H e um rn era Adigoshu Ta K h o t r a a y r i A t diyabo Nor S t h h A e s r g a W e ro d e e E s nd A t L a e d a b i e r a D l T n a g s a y i u m e A T n r b d o a I l i a a G b A oT K R a d o h S i r A t a h N a r i e Y y r o e bri K T e S a S o d Z h e e r Z a a t l l e e a r n a o k y k a n l l e a e M k k C T a a a W a h y h e il u S t c a A a k e h y r d m e o C e w e h t M m i R A L l a a a a k a y e m x c l u R h a N a C m a y e a m w e e d a n e A r t d E r w n a A d a h Y A l a s e f d E e e h w a d l a a a a s M A g i a h a y e H A k f a e r n b h r F e o i a I e t n m y a r t l e l e i c s D N h m e H o e b a a b r w y e e l z a D B e G t H a z n u e A m a l t G o f w o e a F M s z n a h e e t t u n a s k m A e i K A w d e d a e l i e l g a t E r e l a l E o F a T t d S s r a s e a a g e w e E t d a s r o e i o A a A e H y b r t E t n a s s n m i b i m b i b i
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Government response AI summary
The government states the FCDO already has established methods for identifying and analysing conflict sources, with a new conflict centre bolstering existing capabilities and contributing to this effort, informing resource allocation through policy strategy groups.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
18
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
On 2 April, the G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative of the European Union issued a joint statement on the situation in Tigray, condemning human rights abuses and calling on all parties to the conflict to, … exercise utmost restraint, ensure the protection of civilians and respect human rights …
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On 2 April, the G7 Foreign Ministers and the High Representative of the European Union issued a joint statement on the situation in Tigray, condemning human rights abuses and calling on all parties to the conflict to, … exercise utmost restraint, ensure the protection of civilians and respect human rights and international law.46 Noting their deep concern about allegations of human rights violations and abuses, including reports of sexual violence against women and girls in the Tigray region, on 22 April members of the UN Security Council called for investigations to find those responsible and bring them to justice.47
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Government response AI summary
The government emphasizes its leading role in the international response, detailing high-level diplomatic engagements with Ethiopian leaders and allies, and participation in G7 and UN Security Council discussions and statements.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
19
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
OCHA’s 8 March situation update reported the looting of humanitarian supplies and the destruction and vandalisation of humanitarian infrastructure.48 James Duddridge MP, Minister for Africa, told us that five Ethiopians working for international organisations that received UK funding were killed “while putting their lives at risk trying to help others”.49
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OCHA’s 8 March situation update reported the looting of humanitarian supplies and the destruction and vandalisation of humanitarian infrastructure.48 James Duddridge MP, Minister for Africa, told us that five Ethiopians working for international organisations that received UK funding were killed “while putting their lives at risk trying to help others”.49
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the humanitarian context by outlining its ongoing diplomatic efforts, including high-level meetings and engagement with international bodies, to urge an end to violence, secure humanitarian access, and address human rights abuses.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
20
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
We are appalled by the distressing reports of human rights abuses, gender-based violence and sexual violence in Tigray. The horrors that have been inflicted on people and their suffering during this conflict are unimaginable, and we are particularly saddened that, once again, women and girls are being targeted. It is …
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We are appalled by the distressing reports of human rights abuses, gender-based violence and sexual violence in Tigray. The horrors that have been inflicted on people and their suffering during this conflict are unimaginable, and we are particularly saddened that, once again, women and girls are being targeted. It is essential that the fighting ends as soon as possible. The services needed to support those who have suffered so terribly must be restored and expanded to meet present and future needs without further delay. It is crucial that these crimes are investigated and that those responsible face justice. We are particularly saddened by the targeting and killing of aid workers.
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Government response AI summary
The government states its ongoing diplomatic efforts focus on ending violence, protecting civilians, and specifically commits to supporting independent UN/Ethiopian investigations into atrocities to ensure accountability.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
21
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted in Part
We welcome the statement by the G7 group condemning the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate shelling and forced displacement of civilian populations. We recommend that the UK Government uses its long-standing diplomatic and development relationship with Ethiopia to ensure the Ethiopian Government acts on its responsibility to …
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We welcome the statement by the G7 group condemning the killing of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, indiscriminate shelling and forced displacement of civilian populations. We recommend that the UK Government uses its long-standing diplomatic and development relationship with Ethiopia to ensure the Ethiopian Government acts on its responsibility to protect its population from violence, and works to ensure the immediate protection of communities in the region from human rights abuses, including sexual violence. The UK Government must use all diplomatic means possible to remind the Government of Ethiopia that, under the principle of the responsibility to protect, it is responsible for protecting its populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity. The UK Government should bear in mind its obligations to take appropriate action in line with the UN Genocide Convention should the Ethiopian Government fail to take the actions it needs to take to protect its people.
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Government response AI summary
The government states it continues to raise human rights issues with Ethiopia and will support UN investigations into atrocities. However, it rejects the UK government's role in determining genocide, stating this is for competent courts.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
22
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
In line with the recent G7 statement on the importance of an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into crimes reported in Tigray, the UK Government should work with the appropriate authorities to enable access for independent monitors to Tigray to ensure that evidence of the crimes that have been committed …
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In line with the recent G7 statement on the importance of an independent, transparent and impartial investigation into crimes reported in Tigray, the UK Government should work with the appropriate authorities to enable access for independent monitors to Tigray to ensure that evidence of the crimes that have been committed is secured and 46 GOV.UK, Ethiopia: G7 Foreign Ministers’ Joint Statement on Tigray, 2 April 2021 47 United Nations Security Council, Security Council Press Statement on Ethiopia, SC/14501, 22 April 2021 48 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 8 March 2021, p.2 49 Q21 The humanitarian situation in Tigray 13 to bring those who are responsible to justice. The Government should continue to press for clarity on how the joint investigations by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights will work.
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Government response AI summary
The government stated it continues to press for unfettered access for independent human rights organisations and will support the UN Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights to ensure independent, transparent, and impartial joint investigations into atrocities in Tigray.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
23
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Rejected
Drawing upon lessons learned from other atrocities, we recommend that FCDO arranges atrocity prevention training for staff at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa and neighbouring posts as a matter of urgency and designates a named atrocity prevention lead. Staff in these posts should have clear lines of communication to …
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Drawing upon lessons learned from other atrocities, we recommend that FCDO arranges atrocity prevention training for staff at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa and neighbouring posts as a matter of urgency and designates a named atrocity prevention lead. Staff in these posts should have clear lines of communication to colleagues in Whitehall so they can quickly raise and respond to concerns about human rights abuses. Furthermore, the FCDO should embed an atrocity prevention strategy in its updated country strategy for Ethiopia and neighbouring states. 14 The humanitarian situation in Tigray Humanitarian needs Pre-conflict humanitarian needs
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Government response AI summary
The FCDO will continue to seek opportunities to enhance existing atrocity prevention training and mentions a new online module already circulated. It states that existing communication channels are fit-for-purpose and explicitly rejects the need for a separate atrocity prevention strategy, stating the work is incorporated …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
24
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Ethiopia had significant humanitarian needs before the conflict started in Tigray. The desert locust invasion,50 recurrent floods and droughts, and the socioeconomic impact of covid-19 were driving humanitarian needs in Ethiopia.51 The pandemic and the measures to contain it have worsened a dire humanitarian situation, and an estimated 2.4 million …
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Ethiopia had significant humanitarian needs before the conflict started in Tigray. The desert locust invasion,50 recurrent floods and droughts, and the socioeconomic impact of covid-19 were driving humanitarian needs in Ethiopia.51 The pandemic and the measures to contain it have worsened a dire humanitarian situation, and an estimated 2.4 million jobs have been lost in the country.52 Over half of Ethiopia’s population of nearly 104 million people are children.53 Ethiopia is home to 177,996 Eritrean refugees, around 22% of its total refugee population of 801,349.54 The humanitarian situation in Tigray
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the dire humanitarian situation in Tigray, outlines its significant existing financial contributions, and details ongoing support for human rights, particularly deploying an expert on sexual violence and backing aid partners.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
25
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
The situation in Tigray is dire and far from improving, despite the significant efforts of humanitarian agencies to provide assistance.55 Many thousands of people have been displaced by fighting and there are reports of some villages being completely emptied.56 Thousands more are trapped by fighting or lack transport to escape …
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The situation in Tigray is dire and far from improving, despite the significant efforts of humanitarian agencies to provide assistance.55 Many thousands of people have been displaced by fighting and there are reports of some villages being completely emptied.56 Thousands more are trapped by fighting or lack transport to escape it.57 Basic services, such as communications and electricity, have been disrupted and social services have collapsed.58 Universities and health centres have been vandalised, looted or destroyed and armed actors have threatened health workers.59 The police and judicial systems have ceased to function.60 The Minister for Africa, told us: The conflict has caused a collapse in all essential services: health; water; sanitation; basic, life-saving, maternal healthcare and vaccination. The core of development work is not deliverable.61
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Government response AI summary
The government states it is working with partners to assess needs and identify gaps, and has redirected some aid to the Tigray response due to urgent needs. They commit to continuously reviewing their aid programme and collaborating with other donors to raise awareness and mobilise …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
26
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Paul Turnbull, Deputy Country Director and Representative of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Ethiopia, said: The situation in November and December was really terrible. It was not until about the middle of December that ICRC, and then WFP, could deliver anything from outside of Tigray. There was no …
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Paul Turnbull, Deputy Country Director and Representative of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) in Ethiopia, said: The situation in November and December was really terrible. It was not until about the middle of December that ICRC, and then WFP, could deliver anything from outside of Tigray. There was no movement from the stocks that were already in Mekelle, because there was no fuel. There was just no way to move things from Mekelle to the other areas.62 50 The current desert locust outbreak is the worst in 25 years. 51 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.6 52 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.6 53 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.10 54 UNHCR, Situation Update: Ethiopia, Tigray, 3 March 2021, p.2 55 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 30 March 2021, p.1 56 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.1 57 International Medical Corps, Ethiopia–Tigray Region Humanitarian Update Situation Report #6, 18 March 2021, p.1 58 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.8; See also Q10 and Q17 59 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.2 60 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.8 61 Q21 62 Q8 [Paul Turnbull] The humanitarian situation in Tigray 15 UNICEF have said that humanitarian aid alone is not enough, and that, Monitoring, reporting and protection services for those affected must be urgently expanded to meet the growing needs of survivors.63
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Government response AI summary
The government states that ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors is a key priority, an issue raised bilaterally, and they continue to work with partners to improve access and reduce conflict.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
27
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
James Duddridge MP said: Sadly, some of the needs will be very basic—and even more basic than the right to education and a health service. Just getting clean water and food to people, and stopping the rape and the forced removal of people from areas, will be critical.64
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James Duddridge MP said: Sadly, some of the needs will be very basic—and even more basic than the right to education and a health service. Just getting clean water and food to people, and stopping the rape and the forced removal of people from areas, will be critical.64
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Government response AI summary
The government states that ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors is a key priority, an issue raised bilaterally, and they continue to work with partners to improve access and reduce conflict.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
28
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
The population of Tigray is about 6 million.65 The Humanitarian Needs Overview, published in February 2021, estimated that about 4.5 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in Tigray, of whom 3.5 million people are in accessible and partially accessible areas.66 Estimates of the number of people in need, …
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The population of Tigray is about 6 million.65 The Humanitarian Needs Overview, published in February 2021, estimated that about 4.5 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance in Tigray, of whom 3.5 million people are in accessible and partially accessible areas.66 Estimates of the number of people in need, made by the WFP, the Ethiopian Red Cross Society and the Emergency Coordination Centre which meets weekly in Mekelle, range from 2.5 million to 4.5 million.67 In an answer to a Parliamentary Question, James Duddridge MP said the UN estimated that 1.3 million people affected by the conflict need humanitarian assistance. This is in addition to an existing caseload of 1 million people in the region, but a lack of access to the area makes it extremely challenging to determine the actual numbers.68 Refugees and displaced people
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Government response AI summary
The government outlines its current actions, including working with partners to assess humanitarian needs and funding gaps, redirecting some aid to the Tigray response, and continuing to review its aid programme. It also works with other donors to avoid overlap and promote further resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are amongst the hardest hit by the crisis.69 In March the UN’s initial estimate was that there were 521,200 newly internally displaced people, of whom 493,300 were in Tigray, 23,680 in Afar, and 3,850 in Amhara region. In addition, over 61,000 people from Ethiopia had sought …
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Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are amongst the hardest hit by the crisis.69 In March the UN’s initial estimate was that there were 521,200 newly internally displaced people, of whom 493,300 were in Tigray, 23,680 in Afar, and 3,850 in Amhara region. In addition, over 61,000 people from Ethiopia had sought safety in Eastern Sudan.70 Table 1 shows a breakdown of where the 417,152 people (from 108,116 households), newly displaced as a result of the conflict, were living when the IOM carried out its assessments in February 2021 across 96 sites; these figures do not reflect the total displacement, just the number of IDPs identified at the 96 sites that were accessible.71 In November 2020, UNHCR had registered 96,223 Eritrean refugees in Tigray.72 63 UNICEF, Continuing crisis for children in Tigray Ethiopia amid reports of atrocities Ethiopia, Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore, 19 March 2021 64 Q31 [James Duddridge] 65 European Commission, Tigray conflict: EU increases humanitarian support by €23.7 million in Ethiopia, Sudan and Kenya, 19 December 2020 66 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021 67 Ethiopia: situation in Tigray, Briefing Paper Number 09147, House of Commons Library, 25 February 2021, p.5 68 PQ154570, 24 February 2021 69 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.8 70 UNHCR, Situation Update: Ethiopia, Tigray, 3 March 2021, p.2 71 UNHCR, Regional Update 14: Ethiopia Situation (Tigray Region), 16 March – 7 April, 12 April 2021 72 UNHCR, Situation Update: Ethiopia, Tigray, 3 March 2021, p.2; These refugees are sheltered mainly in four refugee camps in the western part of the region: 21,682 in Mai-Aini, 32,167 in Adi-Harush, 8,702 in Shimelba and 25,248 in Hitsats. On 23 January, Ethiopia’s Government closed Shimelba and Hitsats refugee camps and started relocating refugees to Mai Aini and Adi Harush camps. 16 The humanitarian situation in Tigray Table 1: IDPs according to IOM’s displacement tracking
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Government response AI summary
The government works with partners to understand needs, has redirected some aid to Tigray, and continues to review its aid programme while working with other donors to support resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
The International Medical Corps has reported large displacements in Western Tigray heading towards the town of Shire, where approximately 1,500 people were arriving each day. Edward Brown, World Vision Ethiopia, gave us a broadly similar figure but he drew our attention to the fact that this included hundreds of unaccompanied …
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The International Medical Corps has reported large displacements in Western Tigray heading towards the town of Shire, where approximately 1,500 people were arriving each day. Edward Brown, World Vision Ethiopia, gave us a broadly similar figure but he drew our attention to the fact that this included hundreds of unaccompanied children.73 The OCHA situation update for 22 March gives a lower figure of 1,000 people arriving per day.74 There are 82,000 IDPs in Mekelle, most of whom are hosted by the community but with 30,000 people living in collective centres. There are 352,000 IDPs in Shire.75
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Government response AI summary
The government is working with partners to understand needs, has redirected aid to Tigray, and continues to review its programme and collaborate with other donors to raise awareness and mobilise resources for the situation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
As the crisis continues, IDPs in the region are unlikely to be able to return home and the fragile security situation makes further displacements likely. The Humanitarian Needs Overview said: The situation in Tigray will continue to impact the overall living conditions of the resident population in all the zones …
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As the crisis continues, IDPs in the region are unlikely to be able to return home and the fragile security situation makes further displacements likely. The Humanitarian Needs Overview said: The situation in Tigray will continue to impact the overall living conditions of the resident population in all the zones with high likelihood of increased levels of food insecurity, malnutrition, disease outbreak and economic hardship. Displaced people in particular will be at greater risk.76
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Government response AI summary
The government works with partners to understand needs, has redirected some aid to Tigray, and continues to review its aid programme while working with other donors to support resource mobilisation.
Read full response →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
There is an urgent need to scale up the response to meet the existing critical needs of displaced people.77 Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, told us that coordination was difficult, especially in a covid19 environment where the number of people able to meet face-to-face is limited and where other forms …
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There is an urgent need to scale up the response to meet the existing critical needs of displaced people.77 Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, told us that coordination was difficult, especially in a covid19 environment where the number of people able to meet face-to-face is limited and where other forms of communication are unreliable.78 Access
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the importance of ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors, stating it is a key FCDO priority and has been raised bilaterally with Ethiopian authorities and with partners to improve access.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
As insecurity continues in Tigray, humanitarian access to the region remains constrained, particularly in and around the city of Shire.79 Fighting, clashes, and ambushes have affected not only the safety and wellbeing of millions of people but also constrained humanitarian agencies’ operations.80 The delivery of humanitarian assistance is further complicated …
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As insecurity continues in Tigray, humanitarian access to the region remains constrained, particularly in and around the city of Shire.79 Fighting, clashes, and ambushes have affected not only the safety and wellbeing of millions of people but also constrained humanitarian agencies’ operations.80 The delivery of humanitarian assistance is further complicated by bureaucratic obstacles and the presence of various armed actors, particularly in rural areas.81 Paul Turnbull explained that many of the ministries in Tigray had become dysfunctional.82 73 Q13 [Edward Brown] 74 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 22 March 2021 75 UNHCR, Regional Update 14: Ethiopia Situation (Tigray Region), 16 March – 7 April, 12 April 2021 76 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.53 77 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.8 78 Q5 [Paul Turnbull] 79 International Organization for Migration, Northern Ethiopia Crisis Situation Report 4, 11–18 January 2021, 19 March 2021, p.1 80 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 30 March 2021, p.1 81 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 19 February 2021 82 Q10 [Paul Turnbull] The humanitarian situation in Tigray 17
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Government response AI summary
The government states that ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors is a key priority, an issue raised bilaterally, and they continue to work with partners to improve access and reduce conflict.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
When the offensive began in November, the Ethiopian Government imposed a communications blackout.83 Access to the internet and communications were and continue to be cut off or limited.84 Road and air access to the Tigray, Afar and Amhara Regions were closed.85 The Ethiopian Government placed severe restrictions on humanitarian workers …
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When the offensive began in November, the Ethiopian Government imposed a communications blackout.83 Access to the internet and communications were and continue to be cut off or limited.84 Road and air access to the Tigray, Afar and Amhara Regions were closed.85 The Ethiopian Government placed severe restrictions on humanitarian workers and journalists trying to get into Tigray. This not only makes it difficult for aid agencies to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance but it restricts access to verifiable information.86
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Government response AI summary
The FCDO acknowledges that ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors is a key priority, confirming that officials and the Foreign Secretary have repeatedly raised this issue with Ethiopian authorities. They continue to work with partners to improve access and seek a political solution.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
On 3 March, the Ethiopian Prime Minister announced that aid agencies could operate in the region by providing a notification to the Ministry of Peace.87 Access has improved slightly as the Ethiopian Government has eased some of the initial restriction. However, humanitarian aid staff face considerable deliberate obstructions to their …
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On 3 March, the Ethiopian Prime Minister announced that aid agencies could operate in the region by providing a notification to the Ministry of Peace.87 Access has improved slightly as the Ethiopian Government has eased some of the initial restriction. However, humanitarian aid staff face considerable deliberate obstructions to their work. Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, told us the scale of fighting, and the associated security issues, was limiting effective access which meant it was not possible to get a full picture of what it was like everywhere in the region.88
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges that ensuring access and safety for humanitarian actors is a key priority and states they have raised this bilaterally with Ethiopian authorities and continue to work with partners to improve access and reduce conflict.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Alex de Waal, Executive Director of the World Peace Foundation, Tufts University, has described the provision of permits and access to Tigray as a “process of death by bureaucracy” through “drip, drip arbitrary individual permits” with permits issued in a manner that only allows piecemeal, ad hoc access.89 These access …
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Alex de Waal, Executive Director of the World Peace Foundation, Tufts University, has described the provision of permits and access to Tigray as a “process of death by bureaucracy” through “drip, drip arbitrary individual permits” with permits issued in a manner that only allows piecemeal, ad hoc access.89 These access permits are not recognised by all combatants.90
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the difficulties with access by stating it remains a key priority, has been raised bilaterally with Ethiopian authorities, and that they continue to work with partners to improve access and reduce conflict.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Rejected
High-level diplomatic efforts have led to some progress in improving access. Edward Brown explained: The head of WFP, David Beasley, came recently, and that was a real watershed. That high-level diplomacy has really borne fruit, in that, within a week of that visit, some of these things opened up in …
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High-level diplomatic efforts have led to some progress in improving access. Edward Brown explained: The head of WFP, David Beasley, came recently, and that was a real watershed. That high-level diplomacy has really borne fruit, in that, within a week of that visit, some of these things opened up in terms of logistics, bureaucratic impediments and the communications issue.91
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Government response AI summary
The government rejects the committee's assessment that high-level diplomatic efforts have significantly improved access, highlighting persistent issues with communications equipment, travel approvals, and continued denial of access by armed groups. They affirm their ongoing efforts to press for humanitarian access and Eritrean troop withdrawal.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Rejected
Improved access has allowed agencies to scale up their response. World Vision had 82 staff in Tigray before and during the conflict but are in the process of hiring hundreds more. Their total spend in Tigray last year was about $3.9 million and is expected to be over $25 million …
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Improved access has allowed agencies to scale up their response. World Vision had 82 staff in Tigray before and during the conflict but are in the process of hiring hundreds more. Their total spend in Tigray last year was about $3.9 million and is expected to be over $25 million this year.92 On 7 April, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi recognised that humanitarian operations were scaling up as access widened but he stressed efforts needed to be accelerated to cope with the large numbers of displaced people arriving in urban areas.93 83 Ethiopia: situation in Tigray, Briefing Paper Number 09147, House of Commons Library, 25 February 2021, p.4 84 UNHCR, Remarks by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi at the press conference in Addis Ababa., 1 February 2021; Ethiopia: situation in Tigray, Briefing Paper Number 09147, House of Commons Library, 25 February 2021, p.4 85 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.17 86 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.2 87 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 8 March 2021, p.1 88 Q6 [Paul Turnbull] 89 International Crisis Group, Podcast: Risks of Starvation Rise in Ethiopia’s Tigray War, 23 February 2021 90 International Crisis Group, Podcast: Risks of Starvation Rise in Ethiopia’s Tigray War, 23 February 2021 91 Q8 [Edward Brown] 92 Q6 [Edward Brown] 93 UNHCR, Regional Update 14: Ethiopia Situation (Tigray Region), 16 March – 7 April, 12 April 2021 18 The humanitarian situation in Tigray
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Government response AI summary
The government rejects the committee's assessment of improved access, stating that pressing issues with equipment, travel approvals, and denial of access by weapons bearers continue to hinder humanitarian operations. They affirm they continue to press relevant parties for widespread access.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
James Duddridge MP, Minister for Africa, told us: One of the problems is that there is just no access, so we do not even understand the nature of the problem. Another is trying to gain consistent access and not being blocked by Eritrean soldiers, and the complexity around the provisional …
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James Duddridge MP, Minister for Africa, told us: One of the problems is that there is just no access, so we do not even understand the nature of the problem. Another is trying to gain consistent access and not being blocked by Eritrean soldiers, and the complexity around the provisional government and perhaps outlining what the regional authorities … are doing. Some of the territory that we would describe as Tigray is under the control of the Amharans or is inaccessible.94 The UK Government has also expressed concern about limited access for humanitarian agencies to refugee camps in northern Tigray and has called for “sustained, free and unfettered access to enable the delivery of much needed humanitarian assistance”.95 It has also said that, The UK continues to press, at the highest levels, for sustained, free and unfettered humanitarian access across Tigray, so that the UNHCR can uphold its mandate towards refugees.96
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Government response AI summary
The government confirms that ensuring humanitarian access and safety remains a key FCDO priority, with officials and the Foreign Secretary raising the issue with Ethiopian authorities and continuing to work with partners to improve access and find a political solution.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
40
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
On 12 April the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary said: I heard first hand, from humanitarian workers in Gondar, about the access challenges …. the Ethiopian government have announced changes in the process for humanitarian agency personnel to enter and move around in Tigray. Unfortunately, the changes have not yet …
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On 12 April the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary said: I heard first hand, from humanitarian workers in Gondar, about the access challenges …. the Ethiopian government have announced changes in the process for humanitarian agency personnel to enter and move around in Tigray. Unfortunately, the changes have not yet resulted in a major scaling- up of the relief effort and many people in Tigray remain beyond the reach of aid agencies. The ongoing violence, the presence of Eritrean troops and the lack of access humanitarians have to communications equipment are proving a massive impediment to the delivery of essential aid and services.97 On 22 April, the UN Security Council noted that insecurity in the region continued to impede ongoing humanitarian operations and called for a restoration of normalcy.98 In evidence to the Committee on 22 April 2021, the Foreign Secretary told us that securing greater humanitarian access was a priority. He added that: They have gone from a consent basis to a notification basis, which is progress, but we need to make sure we secure unfettered access.99
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the committee's concerns by stating that ensuring humanitarian access and safety is a key priority, has been raised bilaterally with Ethiopian authorities, and that they continue to work with partners to improve access and find a political solution.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
41
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities in need in Tigray and neighbouring regions. These efforts should …
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Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities in need in Tigray and neighbouring regions. These efforts should be undertaken in concert with diplomatic efforts to end the fighting and find a peaceful, inclusive political solution to the crisis. 94 Q29 [James Duddridge] 95 HL12399, 4 February 2021 96 HL12328, 3 February 2021 97 Letter from Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary dated 12 April 2021 98 United Nations Security Council, Security Council Press Statement on Ethiopia, SC/14501, 22 April 2021 99 Oral evidence taken on 22 April 2021, HC (2019–21) 1141, Q159 The humanitarian situation in Tigray 19 Basic needs
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Government response AI summary
The government stated that ensuring humanitarian access and safety is a key FCDO priority, and that officials and the Foreign Secretary have raised this issue with Ethiopian authorities while continuing to work with partners to improve access and find a political solution.
Read full response →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
42
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
The basic needs of many people in Tigray are not being met. These include: Food and food security: Ȥ Agricultural systems have been devastated by months of fighting and extensive looting and destruction. Crops and animals have been looted or burned, notably in the Eastern and Central zones. Farmers are …
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The basic needs of many people in Tigray are not being met. These include: Food and food security: Ȥ Agricultural systems have been devastated by months of fighting and extensive looting and destruction. Crops and animals have been looted or burned, notably in the Eastern and Central zones. Farmers are becoming increasingly desperate, with their food security status described as catastrophic100 Ȥ Children, particularly those whose nutrition status has been compromised, are particularly at risk101 Ȥ With the electricity supply affected by conflict, grinding mills are not functioning102 Ȥ Shortages of fuel, food, and other key goods continue. Limited supply and slow resupply has led to inflated market prices, exacerbating the situation103 • Water: Ȥ Access to water, hygiene and sanitation (WASH) services is largely disrupted across Tigray, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks, including covid-19104 Ȥ Water pumping systems in towns are out of order due to a lack of fuel and electricity, damage, looting, and vandalism. Affected communities may have to use unprotected water sources without any treatment, in some cases traveling long distances to fetch water (a burden that falls disproportionately on girls and women)105 • Shelter: Ȥ While most displaced people are seeking shelter with relatives and friends, thousands are also living in overcrowded collective centres106 Ȥ The crisis has left people in urgent need of emergency shelter and basic household items, including kitchen utensils, blankets, and mats 100 OCHA, Ethiopia - Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 8 March 2021, p.2 and p.5 101 CARE, Oxfam, ActionAid, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla Woredas of North Wollo and South Tigray Zones, 30 January 2021, page 13 102 CARE, Oxfam, ActionAid, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla
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Government response AI summary
The government stated it works with partners like OCHA to assess humanitarian needs and gaps, has redirected some aid to Tigray, and continues to review its aid programme and work with donors for resource mobilisation.
Read full response →
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
For some people these basic needs are being met. Edward Brown, World Vision Ethiopia, told us: We have already been able to reach over 1.2 million people with food, predominantly through the NGO pipeline, and well over a million other beneficiaries have benefited from health, water, shelter, non-food items, multipurpose …
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For some people these basic needs are being met. Edward Brown, World Vision Ethiopia, told us: We have already been able to reach over 1.2 million people with food, predominantly through the NGO pipeline, and well over a million other beneficiaries have benefited from health, water, shelter, non-food items, multipurpose cash, protection and nutrition services. The need is still far greater than the current response, but we are scaling up as fast as we can … .107
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Government response AI summary
The government describes its existing efforts, including working with partners to assess needs, having already redirected some aid to Tigray, and continuing to review its aid programme and work with other donors to raise awareness and mobilise resources.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
44
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
In mid-March, 900,000 people had been given complete food baskets, almost 700,000 had been provided with water, and 136,000 with shelter.108 Water trucking had exceeded the initial targeted population of approximately 455,300 people. But OCHA warned that the number of people targeted, was based on information gathered between late December …
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In mid-March, 900,000 people had been given complete food baskets, almost 700,000 had been provided with water, and 136,000 with shelter.108 Water trucking had exceeded the initial targeted population of approximately 455,300 people. But OCHA warned that the number of people targeted, was based on information gathered between late December 2020 and January 2021 and that the number of people in need would continue to rise because of the ongoing fighting.109
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the situation by outlining its ongoing work with partners to assess needs, redirecting existing aid to Tigray, and continuing to review its aid program while coordinating with other donors for resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
45
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
The response to the need for shelter was alarmingly low compared to the response to other needs.110 Paul Turnbull said IDP camps could probably be avoided if enough support could be provided to IDPs and their hosts. He noted the problems that flow from having established camps and told us …
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The response to the need for shelter was alarmingly low compared to the response to other needs.110 Paul Turnbull said IDP camps could probably be avoided if enough support could be provided to IDPs and their hosts. He noted the problems that flow from having established camps and told us that “We would definitely like to avoid setting up camps like we have in Somali region”.111 He said: If we are able to get enough food and other assistance in, it might stop people crowding into the urban centres. There really is pressure on us to get assistance out into the rural areas, so that people can stay on their farms. If we are able to do it quickly enough, some people at least would be able to stay on their farms, plant their crops and even harvest something at the end of this year; otherwise, we will just have this cycle of displaced people who will get into a camp and, after years and years, will still be there. It is really important that we intervene now.112
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the humanitarian needs by stating its ongoing work with partners to assess critical gaps, redirecting existing aid to Tigray, and continuing to review its aid programme while seeking further resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
46
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Hunger in Tigray is an acute problem, with the World Peace Foundation detailing how the situation goes beyond immediate destruction and includes “dismembering the components of an elaborate food security system built up over decades”.113 Considering how the international community should best respond to the situation, it says, United Nations …
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Hunger in Tigray is an acute problem, with the World Peace Foundation detailing how the situation goes beyond immediate destruction and includes “dismembering the components of an elaborate food security system built up over decades”.113 Considering how the international community should best respond to the situation, it says, United Nations Security Council resolution 2417 (armed conflict and hunger) also provides a mechanism for responding to the situation in Tigray. The resolution was passed unanimously in May 2018. Ireland brought the humanitarian crisis in Tigray to the Security Council agenda in March but no resolution was agreed. Essential to progress on this is the active support of the three African members of the UNSC, but they have not stepped forward.114 107 Q5 [Edward Brown] 108 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.1 109 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.16 110 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.8 111 Q14 [Paul Turnbull] 112 Q14 [Paul Turnbull] 113 World Peace Foundation, Starving Tigray, 6 April 2021 Page, page II 114 World Peace Foundation, Starving Tigray, 6 April 2021 Page, page 53 The humanitarian situation in Tigray 21
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Government response AI summary
The government stated it will use all necessary political levers to address the crisis, supporting initiatives for increased dialogue at the Security Council under UNSCR 2417 and considering further opportunities to improve humanitarian access.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
47
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs are not met will grow as the conflict continues. In …
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We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs are not met will grow as the conflict continues. In addition, as humanitarian agencies reach parts of Tigray that have so far been inaccessible, they will discover many more cases of unmet need, creating a widening gap between the level of need and the provision that has been made.
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Government response AI summary
The government response is an exact restatement of the Committee's conclusion, offering no additional information or specific governmental action.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
48
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also recommend that, as the situation on the ground becomes clearer, …
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We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also recommend that, as the situation on the ground becomes clearer, the FCDO assesses whether its current humanitarian contribution is adequate to ensure that the basic needs of communities are met.
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Government response AI summary
The government stated it works with OCHA and partners to understand needs, has assessed humanitarian gaps, and has redirected some aid to Tigray, committing to continue reviewing its aid programme.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
49
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Food security is a crucial component of the emergency response and we are deeply concerned by reports that hunger is being used in the conflict to achieve political ends. With the FCDO having appointed a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs, the UK is well-placed to lead international …
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Food security is a crucial component of the emergency response and we are deeply concerned by reports that hunger is being used in the conflict to achieve political ends. With the FCDO having appointed a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs, the UK is well-placed to lead international efforts in not only condemning these actions, but coordinating action against them. We recommend that, in accordance with UN resolution 2417 (2018), the UK Government should explore whether to use the mechanisms of the UN Security Council to press for penalties such as sanctions against actors found to be obstructing the delivery of essential humanitarian supplies and using starvation as a weapon of war. Restoration of basic services
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Government response AI summary
The government stated it will use all necessary political levers, supporting initiatives for increased dialogue at the Security Council under UNSCR 2417, and considering further opportunities to improve humanitarian access and reduce conflict intensity.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
50
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
People in Tigray have very little access to healthcare.115 Hospitals, health facilities, medical supplies and ambulances have been looted. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) estimated that barely 1 in 10 health facilities were functioning; of the 106 health facilities MSF teams visited, one in five was or had been occupied by …
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People in Tigray have very little access to healthcare.115 Hospitals, health facilities, medical supplies and ambulances have been looted. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) estimated that barely 1 in 10 health facilities were functioning; of the 106 health facilities MSF teams visited, one in five was or had been occupied by armed soldiers and one facility was being used as an army base.116 Health facilities appear to have been deliberately targeted.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the severe lack of access to healthcare due to insecurity and looting, stating it will work through multilateral systems and continue to support humanitarian responses to restore basic services where possible.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
51
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
The multiagency rapid needs assessment published in January 2021 noted there were no health services in the areas of Southern Tigray affected by the conflict, meaning that regular health service activities such as Maternal and Child Health, treatment of endemic diseases, and the supply of essential drugs for chronic illnesses …
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The multiagency rapid needs assessment published in January 2021 noted there were no health services in the areas of Southern Tigray affected by the conflict, meaning that regular health service activities such as Maternal and Child Health, treatment of endemic diseases, and the supply of essential drugs for chronic illnesses had stopped.117 Many health facilities have few or no remaining staff. Some have fled in fear having been threatened by soldiers and militias; while others no longer come to work because they have not been paid in months.118 Furthermore, ongoing looting of health facilities 115 Médecins Sans Frontières, People left with few healthcare options in Tigray as facilities looted destroyed, 15 March 2021 116 Médecins Sans Frontières, People left with few healthcare options in Tigray as facilities looted destroyed, 15 March 2021 117 CARE, Oxfam, ActionAid, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla Woredas of North Wollo and South Tigray Zones, 30 January 2021, page 26 118 Médecins Sans Frontières, People left with few healthcare options in Tigray as facilities looted destroyed, 15 March 2021 22 The humanitarian situation in Tigray discourages aid organisations from providing medical supplies.119 Women with no access to reproductive health services are concerned that they are at risk of getting pregnant and having additional children to care for because of lack of family planning services. CARE International found there was no pre- and post-natal treatment for the pregnant women or access to reproductive health services. Some women were reported to have given birth in the bush, others at home without professional support. Women who were raped or attacked have no access to trauma and rape services.120
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Government response AI summary
The government states it will work through the multilateral system to address the restoration of basic services, but notes that insecurity prevents immediate resumption in certain locations. It continues to support the humanitarian response for essential services and assistance where access is possible, and is …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
52
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Dr Christian Rogg, the FCDO’s Development Director for Ethiopia, echoed CARE International’s findings, telling us that most healthcare facilities were not functioning. He said restoring services would be challenging because facilities had been looted and personnel had left leading to a “combination of missing equipment or damaged facilities and lack …
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Dr Christian Rogg, the FCDO’s Development Director for Ethiopia, echoed CARE International’s findings, telling us that most healthcare facilities were not functioning. He said restoring services would be challenging because facilities had been looted and personnel had left leading to a “combination of missing equipment or damaged facilities and lack of personnel”.121 Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, said, The health system has collapsed at a time when we have Covid surging in Ethiopia … we have noticed a huge increase in cases among our own staff.122
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Government response AI summary
The government states it will work through the multilateral system with donors to address basic service restoration, but notes insecurity currently prevents services from resuming. It continues to support the humanitarian response and improve access for partners.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
53
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Around 1.3 million children have not been able to access education.123 UNICEF reported that schools had been looted, vandalised and occupied by armed forces and groups.124 About a quarter of the schools in Tigray have been damaged125 and cases of vandalism and looting are still surfacing.126 Many teachers have abandoned …
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Around 1.3 million children have not been able to access education.123 UNICEF reported that schools had been looted, vandalised and occupied by armed forces and groups.124 About a quarter of the schools in Tigray have been damaged125 and cases of vandalism and looting are still surfacing.126 Many teachers have abandoned their posts due to insecurity or the fact that they had not been paid. About a quarter of the schools in Tigray have been damaged.127 With schools housing IDPs or serving as temporary bases for militias,128 the disruption to children’s education due to the conflict is likely to be protracted.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the disruption to basic services, including education, and states it will work through the multilateral system and continue to support the humanitarian response where access is possible, but notes that full resumption of services is hampered by insecurity.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
54
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Basic services were cut off at the start of the conflict and more than 4.5 million people have been without adequate power or communications for more than four months.129 Filippo Grandi pointed out that the closure of the banking and telecommunications systems had “added to the hardship of thousands of …
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Basic services were cut off at the start of the conflict and more than 4.5 million people have been without adequate power or communications for more than four months.129 Filippo Grandi pointed out that the closure of the banking and telecommunications systems had “added to the hardship of thousands of people”.130 Some critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges, will have been damaged during the fighting.131
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Government response AI summary
The UK states it will work multilaterally with partners to address the restoration of basic services, but notes that high insecurity prevents full resumption. It continues to support the humanitarian response to provide access where possible and remains concerned about food security.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
55
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Rejected
Since the Government of Ethiopia declared the end of military operations on 28 November 2020 some services—like telecommunications, electricity, and airspace—have 119 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.2 120 CARE, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, …
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Since the Government of Ethiopia declared the end of military operations on 28 November 2020 some services—like telecommunications, electricity, and airspace—have 119 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.2 120 CARE, Multiagency and Multisectoral Rapid Need Assessment in Raya Kobo, Raya Alamata, Raya Azebo, Chercher, Wajirat and Ofla Woredas of North Wollo and South Tigray Zones, 30 January 2021, page 27 121 Q29 [Dr Rogg] 122 Q17 [Paul Turnbull] 123 UNICEF, Ethiopia Country Office Humanitarian Situation Report January – December 2020, 31 December 2021 124 UNICEF, Continuing crisis for children in Tigray Ethiopia amid reports of atrocities Ethiopia, Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore, 19 March 2021 125 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 13 March 2021, p.6 126 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 30 March 2021, p.2 127 UNICEF, Continuing crisis for children in Tigray, Ethiopia, amid reports of atrocities: Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore, 19 March 2021 128 OCHA, Ethiopia – Tigray Region Humanitarian Update: Situation Report, 8 March 2021, p.6 129 International Medical Corps, Ethiopia–Tigray Region Humanitarian Update Situation Report #6, 18 March 2021, p.1 130 UNHCR, Remarks by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi at the press conference in Addis Ababa., 1 February 2021 131 OCHA, Humanitarian Needs Overview Ethiopia, February 2021, p.17 The humanitarian situation in Tigray 23 gradually restarted. In Mekelle, electricity and telephone services have been partially restored. This has allowed banks to reopen, although with long queues and restrictions on withdrawals.
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Government response AI summary
The government explicitly rejects the committee's assessment that services have gradually restarted, highlighting persistent issues with importing communications equipment, travel approvals, and denial of humanitarian access.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary said the looting of health centres and destruction of vital infrastructure by Eritrean forces and other belligerents had led to “the disintegration of essential basic services and is exacerbating the parlous humanitarian context.”132 He noted that there were reports that looting of health centres …
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The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary said the looting of health centres and destruction of vital infrastructure by Eritrean forces and other belligerents had led to “the disintegration of essential basic services and is exacerbating the parlous humanitarian context.”132 He noted that there were reports that looting of health centres was ongoing and would complicate efforts to restore key services.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the challenges posed by looting and insecurity in Tigray, stating it will work through multilateral systems to address the restoration of basic services and continues to support the humanitarian response where access is possible.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
57
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. Following this, the restoration of basic services such as schools and hospitals will be key in both responding to current needs and starting …
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The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. Following this, the restoration of basic services such as schools and hospitals will be key in both responding to current needs and starting the path towards post- conflict reconstruction. Health and social services are critical. Many of those who have suffered trauma and violence will need specialist support, and health services are essential if communities in Tigray are to cope with the ongoing pandemic and avoid the worst of its secondary impacts. Without access to education, children will grow up without the skills and knowledge needed to ensure the ongoing development of their communities. The restoration of services such as banking and markets will help to alleviate some of the pressure on the people in Tigray. After such severe and sustained disruption, local governance structures will require significant support if they are to restore these services for affected communities.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the vital importance of restoring basic services and states it will work through the multilateral system and continue supporting the humanitarian response where access is possible, but highlights that ongoing insecurity means full resumption of services is not possible.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
58
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
We recommend that the FCDO applies its learnings from other crises and works with other donors to create a plan of action that is properly funded for the restoration of basic services to Tigray. In creating this plan, it should engage with local communities and work closely with regional authorities …
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We recommend that the FCDO applies its learnings from other crises and works with other donors to create a plan of action that is properly funded for the restoration of basic services to Tigray. In creating this plan, it should engage with local communities and work closely with regional authorities and other donors to identify a hierarchy of needs. It should also identify long-term development challenges likely to be created by this conflict (such as food security) and take proactive action to prevent future problems and to have contingency plans in place should these challenges arise. The Ethiopian Government response
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Government response AI summary
The government states it will work through the multilateral system with donors to address basic service restoration, but notes insecurity currently prevents services from resuming. It continues to support the humanitarian response and improve access for partners.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
59
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
On 12 March the Ethiopian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations reiterated Ethiopia’s readiness to engage constructively on the situation in Tigray and urged the international community to support Ethiopia’s “… ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts to restore lasting peace and normalcy ….”.133
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On 12 March the Ethiopian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations reiterated Ethiopia’s readiness to engage constructively on the situation in Tigray and urged the international community to support Ethiopia’s “… ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts to restore lasting peace and normalcy ….”.133
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Government response · verbatim
Focusing on addressing critical humanitarian needs, bringing about an end to hostilities and supporting a sustainable political settlement should remain the priority. The humanitarian response should take into consideration longer term implications of its actions. Given the dynamic situation it is too early for detailed …
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
60
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Not Addressed
On 16 March the Ethiopian Government reported it had reached 4.2 million citizens through the relief and the rehabilitation process that was underway. It said it was providing 70% of the food assistance, with 30% coming from development partners and NGOs.134 132 Letter from Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary dated …
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On 16 March the Ethiopian Government reported it had reached 4.2 million citizens through the relief and the rehabilitation process that was underway. It said it was providing 70% of the food assistance, with 30% coming from development partners and NGOs.134 132 Letter from Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary dated 12 April 2021 133 ENA, Ethiopia Urges Int l Community to Increase Support in Tigray, 12 March 2021 134 ENA, Gov’t Reaches 4.2 million Relief Beneficiaries in Tigray, 16 Mar 2021 24 The humanitarian situation in Tigray The UK Government response: funding and regional strategy
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Government response AI summary
The government expresses concern about the dire humanitarian situation and human rights violations in Tigray, stating that the UN assesses far fewer people have received food assistance than the Ethiopian government reported, and much of the region remains inaccessible.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
The UK Government has said that “Ethiopia is a strategically important partner for the UK in tackling poverty, regional instability and irregular migration”135 and that it “relies on a stable Ethiopia that is supportive of our foreign policy priorities in the Horn of Africa.”136, 137 The former DFID’s vision of …
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The UK Government has said that “Ethiopia is a strategically important partner for the UK in tackling poverty, regional instability and irregular migration”135 and that it “relies on a stable Ethiopia that is supportive of our foreign policy priorities in the Horn of Africa.”136, 137 The former DFID’s vision of Ethiopia was that “by 2020 Ethiopia is transforming into a stable, industrialised, resilient, more inclusive country, able to self- finance its way out of poverty and harness the potential of its youth.”138 The Integrated Review, published in March 2021, names Ethiopia as a partner in furthering shared prosperity goals, democratic values and security interests.139 In November 2020, the FCDO said, All parties to this conflict need to want to find a political solution and accept regional offers of mediation, to avoid a looming humanitarian crisis and the spread of fighting and suffering to other countries in the region. The UK has been a longstanding supporter of Ethiopia, which has established itself as a beacon of reform in Africa. This conflict is putting all of those reform efforts at risk.140 There is already unrest in other parts of Ethiopia ahead of the expected elections in June. There is violence and unrest in Amhara region and a part of Benishangul-Gumuz Region, home to the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (itself a source of tension with Egypt and Sudan) was taken over by an armed group in April.141
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
62
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Deferred
As the conflict continues, there is a risk the violence in Tigray could destabilise the broader region, spreading instability to already fragile neighbouring states such as Sudan. There is a significant risk that the conflict could become protracted or escalate, creating a devastating long-term impact for communities in Tigray and …
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As the conflict continues, there is a risk the violence in Tigray could destabilise the broader region, spreading instability to already fragile neighbouring states such as Sudan. There is a significant risk that the conflict could become protracted or escalate, creating a devastating long-term impact for communities in Tigray and hindering broader regional development. Using existing expertise from the Stabilisation Unit, the FCDO should create a clear road map for inclusive post-conflict reconstruction in Tigray that proactively addresses development needs and embeds peacebuilding within the FCDO’s work in the region. Funding
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Government response AI summary
The government states that it is too early for detailed post-conflict reconstruction planning due to the dynamic situation in Tigray. However, it commits to commencing some initial consideration of reconstruction and recovery planning internally and with external partners at an early stage.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
63
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
The UN regularly publishes and updates information on the funding needed and provided for the crisis in Tigray. In February it published a breakdown that showed that while the overall response was 71% funded, some sectors were a long way from being fully funded. For example, dedicated funding for refugees, …
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The UN regularly publishes and updates information on the funding needed and provided for the crisis in Tigray. In February it published a breakdown that showed that while the overall response was 71% funded, some sectors were a long way from being fully funded. For example, dedicated funding for refugees, WASH and health are, according to figure 2 below, falls short of the net requirement. The multisectoral funding is useful in covering these gaps. 135 FCDO, Ethiopia Profile, 2 September 2020, p.2 136 FCDO, Ethiopia Profile, 2 September 2020, p.2 137 The FCDO has also appointed a Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa and Red Sea, Julian Reilly 138 FCDO, Ethiopia Profile, 2 September 2020, p.2 139 HM Government, Global Britain in a competitive age: the Integrated Review of …, March 2021, p. 63 140 FCDO, Foreign Secretary statement following a meeting with the Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister, 25 November 2020 141 Reuters, Armed group takes control of county in western Ethiopia - rights commission, 22 April 2021 The humanitarian situation in Tigray 25 Figure 2: Humanitarian response funding update Source: UN OCHA, Northern Ethiopia–Humanitarian Response Plan Funding Update, As of 16 February 2021, 22 February 2021
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the humanitarian funding gaps, stating it works with partners like OCHA to assess needs and gaps, has redirected aid to Tigray, and collaborates with donors to avoid overlap and mobilise further resources.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
64
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, told us that: The funding has not really been that great, considering the needs on the ground. We know that many donor countries we have relied on in the past are having a very difficult time in terms of their own economies, so the timing …
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Paul Turnbull, UN WFP Ethiopia, told us that: The funding has not really been that great, considering the needs on the ground. We know that many donor countries we have relied on in the past are having a very difficult time in terms of their own economies, so the timing in terms of the response for Tigray is rather difficult. A lot of Governments do not have the same sorts of funding levels for overseas assistance as they used to have. That is causing us all a problem.142
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Government response AI summary
The government outlines its current actions, including working with partners to assess humanitarian needs and funding gaps, redirecting some aid to the Tigray response, and continuing to review its aid programme. It also works with other donors to avoid overlap and promote further resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
On 8 April US AID announced it was “providing more than $152 million in additional humanitarian assistance” to address “life-threatening hunger and acute malnutrition, as well as provide safe drinking water, urgently needed medical and health support, and shelter for some of the estimated one million people who have fled …
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On 8 April US AID announced it was “providing more than $152 million in additional humanitarian assistance” to address “life-threatening hunger and acute malnutrition, as well as provide safe drinking water, urgently needed medical and health support, and shelter for some of the estimated one million people who have fled their homes.” US AID went on to say: The United States remains deeply concerned about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Tigray and the lack of sufficient humanitarian funding to address it. Large-scale assistance is urgently needed to prevent conditions in Tigray from worsening. The United States urges other donors to immediately increase their contributions to address Ethiopia’s critical humanitarian needs, and to help the most vulnerable people in the Tigray region.143 142 Q10 [Paul Turnbull] 143 US AID, United States announces more than $152 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people affected by Tigray crisis, 8 April 2021 26 The humanitarian situation in Tigray
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Government response AI summary
The government states it is working with partners to assess needs and identify gaps, has redirected some aid to the Tigray response, and continues to review its aid program and work with donors to support resource mobilisation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
66
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Ethiopia was the top bilateral recipient of UK aid for the 2020/21 financial year (£324.9m)144 and was the second-largest recipient of UK bilateral aid in 2019 after Pakistan.145 The UK Government has resisted calls to suspend aid, arguing “withholding finance is not an effective lever”, but has said it continually …
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Ethiopia was the top bilateral recipient of UK aid for the 2020/21 financial year (£324.9m)144 and was the second-largest recipient of UK bilateral aid in 2019 after Pakistan.145 The UK Government has resisted calls to suspend aid, arguing “withholding finance is not an effective lever”, but has said it continually reviews its support.146 In mid- January the EU suspended budget support for Ethiopia until humanitarian agencies are granted access to Tigray.147
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Government response AI summary
The government states its total support to the crisis is £47.7 million since November 2020 and that it keeps its level of support under review. It also remains actively engaged through diplomatic and political channels.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
67
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
Dr Rogg, FCDO, told us £15.4 million had been announced and disbursed specifically for the crisis to date.148 Paul Turnbull called for additional funding for the crisis, telling us that: We have been a beneficiary of DfID and FCDO. If we look at the last decade, DfID contributed over $400 …
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Dr Rogg, FCDO, told us £15.4 million had been announced and disbursed specifically for the crisis to date.148 Paul Turnbull called for additional funding for the crisis, telling us that: We have been a beneficiary of DfID and FCDO. If we look at the last decade, DfID contributed over $400 million to WFP Ethiopia. In fact, even last year, the funding increased slightly from what it was in the previous year. We would urge that funding be provided to curtail this humanitarian catastrophe that is unfolding in Tigray and that an eye be kept on Ethiopia as a whole, given the huge humanitarian needs here. That may not be as specific an ask as you would like, but, if I am talking to a donor at the moment, funding really is a serious issue for us. We expect fair burden- sharing among donors, but we can testify to a very serious situation that has unfolded in Tigray.149
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Government response AI summary
The government stated that total UK support to the crisis is £47.7m since November 2020 and that it keeps this level of support under review, alongside diplomatic engagement.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
68
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
A failure to adequately resource the response to this crisis increases the risk of a ripple effect of instability throughout the region. The failure to support the communities of Tigray, combined with the lack of an inclusive political settlement, compromises hard-won development gains in Ethiopia, and has the potential to …
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A failure to adequately resource the response to this crisis increases the risk of a ripple effect of instability throughout the region. The failure to support the communities of Tigray, combined with the lack of an inclusive political settlement, compromises hard-won development gains in Ethiopia, and has the potential to jeopardise the broader development and stability gains funded through UK aid programmes throughout the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.
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Government response AI summary
The government agreed that addressing humanitarian needs and supporting a political settlement are priorities, and stated that initial consideration of reconstruction and recovery planning will commence at an early stage.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
69
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
With Ethiopia currently the UK’s largest bilateral recipient of ODA, we are surprised that the UK Government has not allocated more financial assistance to the humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray.
Government response AI summary
The government stated it has provided £47.7m in support since November 2020 and keeps its level of support under review, while also engaging diplomatically.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
70
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
To pre-empt and avoid further humanitarian crises, the UK Government should ensure its package of humanitarian assistance to the conflict in Tigray provides sufficient financial and technical resources to support communities in urgent need. We recommend that the FCDO builds a comprehensive picture of the sources of conflict and instability …
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To pre-empt and avoid further humanitarian crises, the UK Government should ensure its package of humanitarian assistance to the conflict in Tigray provides sufficient financial and technical resources to support communities in urgent need. We recommend that the FCDO builds a comprehensive picture of the sources of conflict and instability in East Africa, the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region using the reports and analysis from Posts in the region to synthesise a broader picture, drawing on and applying the expertise of the new Conflict Prevention Hub. The Government should use this analysis to adjust the allocation of the UK’s resources in the region to help prevent conflicts from spreading and destabilising more of the region. 144 GOV.UK, Development Tracker [accessed 11 March 2021] 145 GOV.UK, Statistics on International Development: Final UK Aid Spend 2019 [accessed 11 March 2021] 146 HL11061, 21 December 2021 147 Reuters, EU suspends Ethiopian budget support over Tigray crisis, 15 January 2021 148 Q23 [Dr Rogg] 149 Q20 [Paul Turnbull] The humanitarian situation in Tigray 27 Conclusion
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Government response AI summary
The government states that FCDO already has established methods for analysing regional conflict and that the new Conflict Prevention Hub is bolstering these existing capabilities by combining embassy reports with research and analysis to inform policy and resource allocation.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
71
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
The humanitarian crisis in Tigray—and the international response to it—matters on three levels. First, it matters because of the scale and harrowing nature of the suffering, with lives lost and devastated because of the conflict. The international community has a narrowing window of opportunity to stop this suffering and manage …
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The humanitarian crisis in Tigray—and the international response to it—matters on three levels. First, it matters because of the scale and harrowing nature of the suffering, with lives lost and devastated because of the conflict. The international community has a narrowing window of opportunity to stop this suffering and manage the risk of conflict spreading or becoming protracted. Secondly, through its aid programme in Ethiopia and the broader region, the UK has made a considerable investment in the region’s ongoing development. This conflict has potential to undermine that investment and to set back development in Tigray, Ethiopia and the wider-region. Ethiopia is a country with great potential, but one where much of that potential will be at risk if an inclusive peace cannot be found and a process of long-term reconciliation started in Tigray, as well as in other parts of Ethiopia where the potential for conflict is high.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the committee's broader calls for action to address the conflict, humanitarian needs, political settlement, and reconciliation, stating agreement with these goals but emphasizing that an end to fighting is a prerequisite.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
72
Conclusion
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Acknowledged
Finally, it matters because the conditions—a conflict that could become protracted or could destabilise the region and spread, allegations of human rights abuses, gender-based violence, sexual violence, the allegations of genocide and the use of hunger as a weapon of war—represent an early test of the Government’s new approach to …
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Finally, it matters because the conditions—a conflict that could become protracted or could destabilise the region and spread, allegations of human rights abuses, gender-based violence, sexual violence, the allegations of genocide and the use of hunger as a weapon of war—represent an early test of the Government’s new approach to integrated diplomacy and development and its commitment to establish the UK as a ‘force for good’ in the world.
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Government response AI summary
The government acknowledges the committee's broader calls for action related to the conflict, humanitarian needs, political settlement, and reconciliation, stating agreement with these goals but emphasizing that an end to fighting is a prerequisite.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
73
Recommendation
Tenth Report - The humanitarian situati…
Accepted
We believe that the UK Government should be working to: • help bring about an end to the conflict and prevent it from spreading; • ensure that the humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict are met, that people can safely return to their homes and that essential services …
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We believe that the UK Government should be working to: • help bring about an end to the conflict and prevent it from spreading; • ensure that the humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict are met, that people can safely return to their homes and that essential services are restored as quickly as possible; • help find an inclusive political settlement that delivers a sustainable peace; • establish a process for reconciliation—drawing on the UK’s previous experience in supporting reconciliation processes (e.g. in Colombia)—that starts with investigating the alleged crimes that have been committed and bringing those responsible to justice; To achieve this, the FCDO will need to work with the Government of Ethiopia, regional authorities, its bilateral partners and multilateral organisations, including the UN Security Council, in a coordinated effort that will be a true test of the approach it has set out in the Integrated Review. 28 The humanitarian situation in Tigray
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Government response AI summary
The government agrees with all four core recommendations: ending conflict, meeting humanitarian needs, finding a political settlement, and establishing a reconciliation process. They note that achieving these is largely predicated on an end to fighting, which remains their primary ask.
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Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office