The Facts
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch said in a joint report on Wed. that militias and special forces from Ethiopia's Amhara region have waged a campaign of ethnic cleansing against Tigrayans, stressing the Ethiopian military's complicity in those acts.
This follows a months-long investigation which concluded that pro-government forces, including troops from Eritrea, forced Tigrayans to leave their homes in a campaign of unlawful killings, sexual assaults, mass arbitrary detentions, livestock pillaging, and the denial of humanitarian assistance.
The Spin
Narrative A
This joint report will only increase animosity and block reconciliation, as it characterizes the Ethiopian side as pure evil. To recognize that there are culpable individuals on both sides is crucial in finding a peaceful solution, and holding them accountable. This must be tackled by institutions established by the Ethiopian constitution, not by international NGOs meddling in domestic affairs.
Narrative B
Despite all groups involved in this conflict having committed atrocities and human rights violations, the Ethiopian government and its allies are responsible for the worst and most systematic crimes, some of which could even be described as genocidal. The international community must act now to condemn and put an end to these atrocities.
