The letter, signed by Dekna Foundation, Ethiopian Canadians for Peace, Irob Anina Civil Society, Legacy Tigray, Security and Justice for Tigrayans, Solidarity of Tigrayans for Independence and Liberty, TSILAL Western Tigray Civil Society among others highlights several key concerns regarding UNOCHA’s actions and statements.
One of the primary grievances outlined in the letter is the perceived lack of impartiality and neutrality in UNOCHA’s communications regarding the safety and security of humanitarian workers in Tigray. The organizations rebuke statements made by UNOCHA official, Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, during an interview with The Reporter Ethiopia, asserting that such statements fail to acknowledge the grim reality faced by humanitarian personnel on the ground.
Furthermore, the letter condemns the expulsion of UN staff from Ethiopia and the misrepresentation of areas in Tigray as “North Ethiopia,” which is seen as an attempt to erase the identity and territorial integrity of Tigray. The organizations also express concern over the downplaying of the displacement crisis in Tigray and the statements made by UN officials in the genocidal war against Tigrayans.
In light of these concerns, the civil society organizations call on UNOCHA to take immediate and decisive action, including conducting an independent investigation into the complicity of UNOCHA officials in the genocide against Tigrayans, holding perpetrators accountable, and reaffirming the organization’s commitment to neutrality and impartiality.
Failure to address these issues, the letter warns, not only undermines the credibility of UNOCHA but also jeopardizes the lives and well-being of countless innocent civilians who continue to suffer as a result of the crisis in Tigray.
The letter concludes with a call for UNOCHA to designate Tigrayan lands as the Tigray Region, in recognition of their territorial integrity and the forceful occupation by Amhara forces.
The coalition of civil society organizations emphasizes that the time for action is now, urging UNOCHA to fulfill its duty to protect and serve all those in need without exception or hesitation.