The 2023 annual Global Peace Index (GPI) ranks Ethiopia 151st out of the total of 163 countries surveyed. It is a substantial deterioration from 131st in 2019 and even more concerningly, the report reveals conflict deaths in Ethiopia surpass even the war-torn regions of Ukraine and Gaza.
The costs of the recent war and other conflicts have been horrific – millions have died, tens of millions are displaced, and wounds inflicted on the social fabric run deep. The atrocities committed all across the country over the last few years – including brutal and grotesque killings – remain fresh in the collective memory.
Parents continue to mourn their lost loved ones, the trauma of rape lingers for countless women, and the economy struggles to recover from the devastation. Ethnic tensions have been exacerbated by the conflict, creating a climate of suspicion and mistrust. The already fragile economy struggles to recover from the brutal blows of war.
The underlying tensions persist, and analysts warn of another major conflict brewing, echoed by concerning intelligence reports. The unresolved territorial disputes between Tigray and Amhara regional states (the Wolkait Setit Humera areas in particular) are seen as the most likely flashpoints.
The prospect of another war is a cost that the nation can ill afford to bear again.
However, amidst this bleak landscape, there are flickers of hope. Communication between opposing sides seems less inflammatory compared to recent years, offering a potential path towards substantive dialogue and a peaceful resolution. Seizing this opportunity requires a collective effort from all Ethiopians. The responsibility falls on everyone, from the esteemed scholars, respected elders, and revered religious leaders to the ordinary citizens and taxpayers. All must raise their voices in unison, pressuring politicians to choose the path of peace.
The conditions present a critical opportunity for substantive dialogue, a chance to identify common ground and craft a win-win solution to the underlying tensions. This is not the time for bickering or clinging to past grievances.
It is critical that the leaders and representatives of Tigray and Amhara at all administrative levels demonstrate wise leadership and make the right moves. They must prioritize dialogue over belligerence and brinkmanship. Fostering an environment conducive to peace talks requires concrete and genuine steps from both sides. This might include prioritizing the interest of the greater public than party interests and individual egos.
The international community can play a vital role in bolstering Ethiopia’s fragile peace. Sustained diplomatic pressure on all parties to de-escalate tensions and engage in good faith negotiations is essential. However, impartiality is paramount. Avoiding any perception of favoring one side over the other will be crucial in maintaining the trust of both parties, who undoubtedly believe they have legitimate claims. The international community should act as a facilitator, promoting peaceful dialogue and creating a conducive environment for Ethiopians to find their own solutions to their internal conflicts. Ultimately, the responsibility for achieving lasting peace in Ethiopia lies with its own people. This will require a commitment to open and honest conversation.
This is not just a call for peace; it is a call for a paradigm shift. The focus must move from “aggressively working towards pressuring” politicians to fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding. Ordinary citizens can play a vital role in this process. By engaging in civil discourse, promoting empathy and understanding across ethnic lines, and holding their leaders accountable, they can become the architects of a more peaceful future.
The true measure of a representatives’ commitment to their people lies not in words, but in their actions. Now is the time for them to demonstrate their care by prioritizing peace over war. Only by choosing peace can they safeguard the well-being of their people and build a brighter future for them.
The road ahead will undoubtedly be challenging. The path to lasting peace is rarely smooth, and entrenched interests will likely resist change. Deep wounds need time to heal, and entrenched mistrust must be overcome. Yet, the alternative – another round of devastating conflict – is something the nation in general and the two people in particular simply cannot afford.
