Eight survivors of the Tigray conflict have accused twelve high-ranking Ethiopian and Eritrean officials of war crimes. The allegations stem from a complaint submitted to the German Federal Public Prosecutor, based on the universal jurisdiction principle. The survivors expressed the ongoing suffering and need for justice amidst continuing displacement in the region.
In a significant development, eight survivors of the Tigray conflict in Ethiopia have accused twelve senior officials from Ethiopian and Eritrean civilian and military ranks of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity. This allegation was presented by the non-profit organization Legal Action Worldwide (LAW) to the Associated Press on Monday. The conflict, occurring from 2020 to 2022, has led to staggering estimates of up to 600,000 deaths.
The war involved the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) clashing with Ethiopian federal forces, supported by Eritrean troops and local militias. There have been numerous reports of atrocities committed by both sides, with the Ethiopian government severely restricting humanitarian access during a substantial portion of the conflict. The survivors have filed a historic criminal complaint with the German Federal Public Prosecutor’s office, underscoring the urgent call for justice.
The case, lodged in Germany in 2024, is based on the principle of universal jurisdiction, which permits the prosecution of serious international crimes regardless of where they occurred. Neither the Ethiopian government nor the Eritrean leadership responded to inquiries regarding the allegations. Nick Leddy, head of the strategic litigation department at LAW, emphasized the need for the German authorities to investigate and possibly issue arrest warrants for the accused individuals.
As highlighted by some survivors, the emotional toll of the conflict remains profound. One survivor lamented the loss of their mother and brother, asserting that the suffering for many continues. Despite a peace agreement established in November 2022, approximately one million individuals from Tigray remain displaced, and internal rifts within the TPLF have raised concerns of a resurgence of violence.
The allegations of war crimes against Ethiopian and Eritrean officials underscore the gravity of the atrocities committed during the Tigray conflict. The survivors’ pursuit of justice through international legal avenues, particularly in Germany, highlights the continuing plight of the victims and the need for accountability. As the situation evolves, it is crucial to monitor developments related to humanitarian conditions and the stability in the region moving forward.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
