UNHCR Urges Enhanced Protection for Eritrean Asylum-Seekers in Ethiopia
The UNHCR has called for enhanced protection for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia, as approximately 20,000 have entered since January. Effective registration is crucial for access to essential services and protection against risks like human trafficking. Ethiopia is a significant host for refugees, accommodating over one million, including a large number from Eritrea.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has emphasized the urgent need for enhanced protection for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia. These individuals have predominantly crossed into the country via the northern regions of Afar and Tigray, seeking safety and fundamental assistance. Since the beginning of January, it is estimated that around 20,000 Eritreans have entered Ethiopia, adding to the existing population of over 70,000 Eritrean refugees already registered there. The agency highlights that early support for these new arrivals is vital. Effective registration and documentation are essential components of refugee protection, facilitating access to necessary services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Moreover, the UNHCR has expressed its readiness to cooperate with the Ethiopian government to improve registration access, underscoring that prompt registration can mitigate risks, including human trafficking. Ethiopia holds the status of the third-largest host of refugees in Africa, currently accommodating more than one million refugees and asylum-seekers, primarily from neighboring South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea. The commitment by the UNHCR to assist in the registration process reflects a critical step towards ensuring the welfare and rights of Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia.
In late November 2023, the UNHCR called attention to the plight of Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia. The influx of Eritreans into Ethiopia stems from ongoing conflict and instability in Eritrea, prompting many to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Ethiopia’s geography and relative proximity make it a significant destination for these individuals seeking international protection. The UNHCR’s involvement is crucial as Ethiopia strives to maintain its status as a major host for refugees in the region.
The UNHCR’s appeal for strengthened protection measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia underscores the urgency of addressing the challenges faced by these individuals. With thousands crossing into the country in search of safety, effective registration and documentation are pivotal for their well-being. Ethiopia continues to play a vital role in hosting refugees, and the collaboration between the UNHCR and the Ethiopian government is essential for safeguarding the rights and safety of these vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
