UNHCR Urges Enhanced Protections for Eritrean Asylum-Seekers in Ethiopia

The UNHCR has urged Ethiopia to bolster protection for Eritrean asylum-seekers entering the country, with approximately 20,000 arrivals since January. The agency stresses the importance of swift registration for these individuals to secure essential services and reduce human trafficking risks. Ethiopia remains a major host for refugees in Africa, accommodating over one million individuals, many from Eritrea, South Sudan, and Somalia.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called for improved protection measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia. These individuals primarily enter through the Afar and Tigray regions, seeking international protection as well as basic assistance. Since the beginning of the year, approximately 20,000 Eritreans have crossed into Ethiopia, joining over 70,000 already residing in the country as registered refugees. UNHCR emphasized the importance of early support, particularly the registration and documentation of these asylum-seekers. This process is vital for affording them access to essential services such as healthcare, education, the right to work, and family reunification. Additionally, quick registration can also mitigate the risks of human trafficking, according to the agency. Ethiopia currently hosts more than one million refugees and asylum-seekers, making it the third-largest refugee host country in Africa, with a significant population from South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea.

The UNHCR’s call for enhanced protections for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia is grounded in the urgent need for safety and assistance for those fleeing their home country amidst ongoing challenges. Eritrea has been characterized by a long-standing human rights crisis, compelling many to seek refuge abroad. Ethiopian borders have seen an increase in asylum-seekers, particularly in the northern regions like Afar and Tigray, which are close to Eritrea. Therefore, the UNHCR’s push for improved registration and support mechanisms in Ethiopia is crucial to ensuring the welfare and protection of these vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the UNHCR’s appeal highlights the critical need for enhanced protection mechanisms for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia. With rising numbers of refugees seeking safety and assistance, the importance of prompt registration and access to basic services cannot be overstated. The agency’s commitment to working alongside the Ethiopian government to facilitate these processes underlines the urgent humanitarian responsibility both organizations hold towards these individuals seeking a better life.

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