The Humanitarian Crisis in Tigray, Ethiopia
On Nov 4, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared a military campaign against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (a political party), which was accused of an attack on a military base in the northern Tigray region.
Both sides are now engaging in fighting, which is feared to escalate and spark a civil war.
The Humanitarian Crisis Explained
The United Nations has deemed the situation a humanitarian crisis with over 50,000 refugees fleeing to Sudan. 45% of those crossing the border are children.
According to the U.N., the refugees are living without food, water, electricity and medical supplies. There is overcrowding in the camps and a lack of infrastructure that increases barriers preventing aid.
The UN’s Response to the Crisis
UN Secretary-General Guterres has called for an “immediate de-escalation of tensions and peaceful resolution.”
The UN is also working with government authorities to provide shelter, food, water, and other emergency relief. They have also started health screening of new arrivals, information campaigns on COVID-19, and distribution of soap and facemasks at border entry points.
written by Mariana Ortiz
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