UNHCR Advocates for Enhanced Protection of Eritrean Asylum-Seekers in Ethiopia

The UNHCR has called for enhanced protection measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia, where around 20,000 have arrived this year, adding to the existing refugee population. Registration is crucial for accessing essential services and reducing trafficking risks. Ethiopia is the third-largest refugee host in Africa, housing over one million displaced individuals.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has issued an urgent call for strengthened protection measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia. Such individuals are entering Ethiopia primarily through the northern regions of Afar and Tigray, in search of international protection and essential assistance. The UNHCR’s recent statement outlined that during the current year, approximately 20,000 Eritreans have crossed into Ethiopia, joining over 70,000 already recognized as refugees within the nation. Timely support for these new arrivals is deemed critical. The UNHCR emphasizes that the processes of registration and documentation are fundamental to enhancing the protection of refugees. The agency has expressed its willingness to assist the Ethiopian government in increasing access to registration services for Eritrean asylum-seekers, as successful registration is vital for refugees to gain access to healthcare, education, family reunification, and employment rights in Ethiopia. Furthermore, the UNHCR asserted that prompt registration of asylum-seekers plays a role in mitigating the risks of human trafficking. Ethiopia holds the status of the third-largest refugee host country in Africa, accommodating over one million refugees and asylum-seekers, predominantly from South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea, as reported by the UNHCR.

The ongoing conflict and instability in Eritrea have led many citizens to flee their country in search of safety and better living conditions. As a result, Ethiopia has become a key destination for Eritrean asylum-seekers due to its geographical proximity and relatively open border policy. The UNHCR’s call for enhanced protection measures highlights the ongoing need for international support and assistance as Ethiopia navigates the complexities of refugee management and protection.

It is imperative that both the Ethiopian government and international organizations such as the UNHCR collaborate to ensure the well-being and legal recognition of Eritrean asylum-seekers. By prioritizing registration and offering essential services, the risk factors associated with human trafficking can be diminished, furthermore reinforcing the protection of vulnerable populations. Ethiopia’s role as a host to numerous refugees highlights the regional responsibility in addressing the challenges faced by displaced individuals.

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