UN reports 183 deaths in clashes within Ethiopia’s Amhara region

The United Nations has issued an appeal for an end to violence, killings, and human rights abuses in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, where tensions have escalated, resulting in at least 183 deaths since July. This surge in violence comes after a destructive conflict in the neighboring Tigray region, which also involved fighters from Amhara.

UN Human Rights Office spokeswoman Marta Hurtado expressed deep concern about the deteriorating human rights situation, particularly in the Amhara region. Clashes between the Ethiopian military and the regional Fano militia have intensified, leading to a state of emergency declaration on August 4.

Hurtado stated, “At least 183 people have been killed in clashes since July, according to information gathered by the UN Human Rights Office.”

The escalation of tension in the northern region follows the conclusion of a devastating war in Tigray that drew in Amhara fighters as well. The federal government’s decision to dismantle regional forces across Ethiopia in April led to protests by Amhara nationalists who feared their region’s weakening.

In early July, clashes erupted between the national army and local fighters known as Fano, prompting the declaration of a six-month state of emergency on August 4. This status grants authorities extensive powers, including arresting suspects without court orders, imposing curfews, and prohibiting public gatherings.

Hurtado revealed, “We have received reports that more than 1,000 people have been arrested across Ethiopia under this law. Many of those detained were reported to be young people of Amhara ethnic origin suspected of being Fano supporters.”

Mass house-to-house searches have also been reported since early August. The UN called for an end to mass arrests, emphasized the need for judicial reviews of any liberty deprivations, and urged the release of those detained arbitrarily.

Hurtado concluded, “We call on all actors to stop killings, other violations and abuses.”