European Parliament debates the situation in Tigray, urges humanitarian access and investigation of crimes

On Thursday 11 February, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and the Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen met in a plenary session, debating on “The humanitarian situation in Ethiopia”. The Commissioner opened the debate underlying that the European Union (EU) is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict in the Tigray region. The EU is calling for the end of hostilities, full humanitarian access to be exercised independently from the Ethiopian administration, and investigations over alleged human rights violations. MEPs focused largely on the severe human rights abuses, presence of Eritrean soldiers on the ground in Tigray and the EU approach to the conflict.

News Highlights: First shipwreck of the year off Libya, Frontex Director under scrutiny, Desperate humanitarian needs in Tigray

In this week’s news highlights: Dire needs as population and refugees in Tigray region face hunger and starvation; Amidst relocation, refugees at Sudanese border require supplies; Witness report of killings in Axum; At least 43 sea casualties off Libyan shores; Frontex Director under pressure amidst allegations of illegal pushbacks and misleading MEPs; EU Court of Justice rules it prohibited to deport minors without ensuring adequate reception services; IOM advocates reform of European migration policy under current EU Presidency; Major COVID-19 outbreak among asylum seekers in Kent barracks; 150 migrants and refugees attempted to climb over the fence into the Spanish enclave Melilla; Long-term accommodation needed in Bosnia and Herzegovina for refugees and migrants; 1.3 millions of migrants left the UK in one year; In the fight against COVID-19, vaccination for refugees and migrants are critical; Migration expected in 2020 falls short due to COVID-19. 

For frequent updates about the situation in the Horn, please see the EEPA Horn situation reports.