UNHCR Advocates for Better Protection of Eritrean Asylum-Seekers in Ethiopia
The UNHCR has called for enhanced protections for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia, noting that around 20,000 Eritreans have arrived this year. The agency emphasizes the importance of timely registration for accessing essential services and mitigating risks such as human trafficking, while offering support to Ethiopian authorities in improving registration access.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has urged for improved protective measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia. The UN Refugee Agency emphasizes that these individuals are entering Ethiopia through the northern regions of Afar and Tigray, fleeing for safety and essential services. Approximately 20,000 Eritreans have entered Ethiopia since January, joining over 70,000 already recognized as refugees. The UNHCR underscores that timely registration is critical for ensuring refugee protection and access to fundamental services, including healthcare and education. The UNHCR stands ready to assist the Ethiopian government in enhancing registration opportunities, as proper documentation is essential for refugee aid. The agency points out that expediting the registration process is vital in mitigating risks such as human trafficking. With Ethiopia housing more than one million refugees, it ranks as the third-largest refugee host in Africa, primarily assisting individuals from South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea.
Eritrea has seen significant unrest and human rights violations, prompting a substantial number of citizens to flee to neighboring countries for safety. Ethiopia, which shares a border with Eritrea, has become a common destination for Eritrean nationals seeking asylum. The UNHCR advocates for a robust response to the influx of Eritrean asylum-seekers, highlighting the importance of effective registration processes for safeguarding their rights and facilitating their access to necessary services.
In conclusion, the UNHCR’s call for enhanced protection for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia highlights the urgent need for improved registration processes to facilitate their access to essential services and reduce risks, such as human trafficking. With an increasing number of refugees in Ethiopia, it is crucial for both the UNHCR and Ethiopian authorities to collaborate in providing effective solutions to this humanitarian challenge.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
