Terror in Tigray

The Genocide Chronicals YOU CAN’T RUN YOU CAN’T HIDE WE CHARGE YOU WITH GENOCIDE

TERROR IN TIGRAY

We challenge you to confront the stark realities of Tigray's continuing tragedy.

This zine exposes the systemic violence and displacement, the starvation and ongoing famine, alongside the often-unspoken scourge of sexual violence faced by Tigrayan people and children.

we cannot ignore the pressing humanitarian crisis engulfing Tigray. This zine serves as both a chronicle of despair and a call to action, urging us to bear witness to the atrocities and stand in solidarity with those enduring unimaginable hardships in Tigray.

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A Brief History

Tigray, a rugged region situated in the northern part of Ethiopia, has a history as intricate as its jagged landscapes. For centuries, it has been a cradle of civilization, home to the ancient Aksumite Empire, which once reigned supreme over the Horn of Africa.

This empire, which flourished from the 1st to the 7th century AD, left an indelible mark on the region, evidenced by towering obelisks, intricately carved steles, and awe-inspiring rockhewn churches.

The Aksumite Empire, with its capital in the city of Aksum (now part of modern-day Tigray), was a thriving center of trade and culture, connecting Africa with the Mediterranean and beyond.

Its wealth and influence extended far and wide, evidenced by the legendary tales of the Queen of Sheba and the Ark of the Covenant. The rise of Christianity in the 4th century further enriched Tigrayan culture, as evidenced by the myriad churches, monasteries, and religious artifacts that dot the landscape. The region has also been shaped by rich Islamic influences.

Tigray's Al-Nejashi heritage site is home to one of the first mosques in the world, built in the 7th century by the companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who fled from religious persecution in Mecca. The mosque is named after the Aksumite King who gave them refuge.

Additionally, Tigray is renowned for its resilient spirit, particularly during the era of Italian colonization. During the First Italo-Ethiopian War (1895-1896), Tigrayan forces played a pivotal role in the Battle of Adwa, where Ethiopian troops achieved a historic victory over the Italian army.

This decisive battle not only preserved Ethiopia's sovereignty but also marked the first significant defeat of a European colonial power by an African nation. The resistance and strategic prowess of the Tigrayans were instrumental in this victory, symbolizing their enduring commitment to independence.

However, beneath this cultural richness lies a history scarred by conflict and political strife.

Tigray's pivotal role in the overthrow of the repressive Derg regime in 1991 heralded a new era of hope and promise. Yet, the transition to democracy under the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) government was fraught with challenges.

Tensions simmered between the dominant Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and other ethnic groups within the EPRDF coalition, laying the groundwork for future discord.

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The Powder Keg To understand the Tigray conflict, it's imperative to delve into Ethiopia's intricate socio-political landscape.

The TPLF, a prominent political force, dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades until 2018.

However, the ascension of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ushered in a wave of political reforms, challenging the TPLF's hegemony. Abiy Ahmed's political reforms were perceived as a direct assault on the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the Tigrayan people's rightful place within the Ethiopian political landscape. Abiy's agenda of centralization and power redistribution as a threat to Tigray's autonomy and selfdetermination. The TPLF had championed a decentralized federal system that granted regions significant autonomy over their affairs, including control over resources and governance structures.

Tigrayans viewed Abiy's calls for a pan-Ethiopian identity with suspicion, fearing the erasure of Tigrayan culture and identity

The TPLF had long advocated for ethnic federalism as a means of protecting minority rights and ensuring representation for marginalized groups.

Abiy's rhetoric of unity and assimilation was perceived as a threat to Tigrayan identity, fueling resentment and resistance among Tigrayan nationalists.

Abiy's government of exploited Tigray's resources for the benefit of the central government and allied regions. The TPLF had overseen significant economic development in Tigray, including investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and industry. However, Abiy's economic reforms, including privatization and deregulation, were seen as a means of enriching central elites at the expense of Tigrayans The involvement of Eritrean forces in the conflict, in particular, was seen as a blatant act of aggression aimed at crushing Tigrayan resistance and bolstering Abiy's grip on power.

Tigrayans saw themselves as the victims of a coordinated campaign of violence and oppression orchestrated by external aggressors and their local collaborators.

The relationship between the TPLF and the central government deteriorated rapidly.

One of the key flashpoints was the decision by the federal government to postpone national elections scheduled for August 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The TPLF, which controlled the regional government in Tigray, defied the federal government's authority by conducting its own regional elections in September 2020, furthering tensions.

In response, the federal government labeled the TPLF's actions as unconstitutional and declared the regional elections illegitimate.

Tensions escalated into open conflict in November 2020 when the Ethiopian government launched a full military offensive against the TPLF-led regional forces.

Media played a huge role in garnering support for the Ethiopian government against the TPLF and Tigrayan citizens. Statecontrolled media outlets disseminated propaganda and false narratives that demonized Tigrayans, depicting them as enemies of the state and perpetrators of violence.

By portraying Tigrayans as a common enemy, Ahmed sought to consolidate power, garner public support for his administration, and justify the brutal crackdown on dissent in the region. The manipulation of the media not only fueled interethnic tensions but also contributed to the escalation of violence and atrocities committed against Tigrayans during the conflict.

Ahmed capitalized on existing ethnic tensions and rivalries, leveraging alliances with neighboring regional governments and militia groups to bolster his forces and facilitate the targeting of Tigrayan communities.

These alliances were forged through promises of power, resources, and impunity.

Neighboring regions and militias were mobilized to provide troops, logistical support, and intelligence, effectively widening the scope of the conflict. As the conflict unfolded, it became increasingly evident that Ahmed's actions were aimed at achieving political domination at the expense of human lives. The collaboration between Ahmed's government and external actors highlights the systematic nature of the violence

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Unimaginable Horrors

At midnight, November 4, In an interview featured in According to the average The scale of death and 2020, Abiy Ahmed the Global Citizen, a of estimated reports displacement underscores declared war, plunging Tigrayan woman conducted by BMC the urgent need for justice Tigray into darkness. describes this horror. womens health, (more and accountability to Electricity vanished, “For two weeks, they than 10,000 & about address the atrocities internet connections were gang-raped me. For 14 100,000), 50,000 women committed during the severed, banking services days they wouldn’t stop, experienced rape in Tigrayan genocide. ceased, and both air and despite my pleas to at Tigray. These atrocities In June 2021, the ground transportation least breastfeed my reflect a deep-seated Ethiopian government came to a halt. Every daughter. They told me hatred and a desire to declared a unilateral essential service was they would kill her too. exterminate the Tigrayan ceasefire, ostensibly to abruptly cut off, leaving All of us were raped, they people - by killing, raping, allow for humanitarian the region isolated and would take turns and rape separating families, aid delivery and dialogue engulfed in uncertainty. us as a group of three destroying cultural values, with the TPLF. However, Eritrean troops arrived in while saying ‘we are humiliating men, and sporadic fighting and urban centers with heavy cleansing your wombs, forcibly sterilizing women. reports of atrocities artillery bombardment, now you will have clean The systematic nature of continued, indicating the prompting residents to babies” The objective of the atrocities aligns with enduring fragility of the flee to the villages for the gang rapes was to the criteria for genocide as situation. One of the safety.

Those found ethnically cleanse outlined in international critical aspects of ceasefire outdoors were Tigrayans, This tactic conventions and has been addressing the immediately killed. aimed to have irreparable guidelines. Therefore, it is widespread human rights Troops conducted damage reproductive imperative to recognize violations. International aggressive house-to-house organs, thereby the rapes in Tigray as a human rights searches, executing any preventing them from form of genocidal organizations documented remaining inhabitants and bearing children. Many violence, emblematic of numerous atrocities, leaving their bodies women were mutilated by the unique horrors including mass killings, unattended in the streets. being raped with perpetrated against the sexual violence, and the The pillaging extended to weapons, suffered Tigrayan people. The deliberate targeting of businesses, farms, and infections, and many died Tigrayan war and civilians.

Calls for crops, while essential from internal bleeding genocide inflicted a accountability led to infrastructure such as sustained from the injuries devastating toll on the investigations on Human vehicles, factories, medical of the gang rapes. people of the region and Peoples' Rights. facilities, schools, hotels, Husbands and sons were While precise figures These investigations and grain storage facilities forced to rape their remain elusive due to aimed to document abuses were either looted or mothers and daughters, if restricted access and and lay the groundwork demolished.

Remaining they refused they would ongoing conflict, for potential prosecutions, structures deemed useless be immediately killed and estimates suggest that up either through domestic for looting were the soldiers would to 600,000 of individuals courts or international destroyed. The troops also proceed to gang rape the lost their lives mechanisms. stole sheep, goats, and women and children. If Additionally, the conflict As of 2024, the situation chickens. Three months they agreed, the soldiers triggered a massive in Tigray remains fragile. later, Ethiopian troops would film the forced rape displacement and While large-scale military did the same. Many and humiliation as humanitarian crisis, with operations have ceased, people, majority women propaganda to use against millions of people forced sporadic violence and and girls, were violently the Tigrayans to justify to flee their homes to instability persist. The raped & humiliated. There the violence and killing. refugee camps where humanitarian crisis are many accounts of many are facing famine continues to affect Tigrayan women being today. millions of people. tied up and raped for weeks.

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Aftermath The Tigrayan genocide has created a severe humanitarian crisis. In the wake of the violence, the region now faces severe famine and a multifaceted crisis that demands urgent attention and action. The unprecedented loss of life and widespread displacement has disrupted livelihoods, separated families, and left countless people in desperate need of basic necessities.

The humanitarian situation is dire. Access to food, clean water, and medical care remains severely limited.

Reports from humanitarian organizations indicate that the healthcare system in Tigray is on the brink of collapse, with many facilities damaged or destroyed and a severe shortage of medical supplies and personnel.

One of the most pressing issues and call for immediate action is the ongoing famine.

Destruction of farms, livestock, crops, businesses, and manufacturing facilities has left Tigrayans with barely anything to eat.

According to the United Nations, hundreds of thousands of people in Tigray are facing famine conditions, with millions more experiencing severe food insecurity. Millions.

The situation is compounded by the blockade of humanitarian aid, which has prevented food and other essential supplies from reaching those in need.

Malnutrition rates, particularly among children, have soared, leading to long-term health consequences and increased mortality rates.

The famine in Tigray has continued to pile on the psychological trauma experienced by the population, necessitating comprehensive mental health support alongside immediate humanitarian aid.

The psychological impact of the conflict on the Tigrayan population cannot be overstated. The violence and atrocities have left deep emotional scars on survivors, manifesting in widespread trauma, depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many survivors report recurring nightmares, severe anxiety, and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness and despair.

Traditional social networks, which provided emotional and practical support, have been shattered by the displacement and loss of community cohesion.

Families have been separated, with many people unaware of the fate of their loved ones. The loss of community leaders, elders, and social institutions has deprived survivors of critical sources of guidance and support.The targeting of cultural and religious sites during the conflict has struck at the heart of the Tigrayan identity and heritage. The destruction of these sites is not only a loss of physical structures but also a symbolic assault on the community's collective memory and cultural pride. To address these psychological consequences, comprehensive mental health support and trauma healing initiatives are essential.

Mental health services must be integrated into the broader humanitarian response to ensure that psychological care is accessible to all who need it.

This includes establishing mental health clinics, providing training for local healthcare providers, and ensuring that mental health support is culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of the Tigrayan population. The international response to the crisis in Tigray has been marked by a mix of condemnation,

diplomatic efforts, and humanitarian aid pledges.

However, the Ethiopian government's restrictions on access to the region have made it difficult for international organizations to deliver aid and assess the full extent of the crisis.

Sanctions and diplomatic pressure have been applied to encourage a cessation of hostilities and to allow humanitarian access, but these measures have had limited success in bringing about a significant and sustained improvement in the situation on the ground.

The involvement of Eritrean troops and regional militias further adds to the complexity of the conflict, making it difficult to achieve a unified and effective response.

Logistical challenges, such as the destruction of infrastructure and communication networks, have also impeded aid delivery.

The aftermath of the Tigrayan genocide and the current famine and crisis present an urgent challenge.

The international community, together with Ethiopian authorities, government and local citizens, must prioritize humanitarian relief, support recovery efforts.

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A path forward The first and most urgent step is to address the immediate humanitarian needs of the Tigrayan people. The famine has left millions on the brink of starvation, and access to food, clean water, and medical care is critically needed.

International organizations, such as the United Nations, World Food Programme, and various NGOs, must intensify their efforts to deliver aid. This requires: Unimpeded Humanitarian Access: The Ethiopian government must allow unrestricted access for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to all affected areas.

International pressure and diplomatic efforts are crucial to ensure that aid reaches those in need without delay or obstruction.

Increased Funding and Resources: Donor countries and international financial institutions should increase funding for humanitarian operations in Tigray.

Adequate resources are essential to scale up food distribution, healthcare services, and shelter for displaced persons.

Emergency Medical Support: Establishing temporary clinics and deploying medical teams to provide urgent care, health crisis.

including trauma treatment, maternal health services, women’s health services and immunizations, is vital.

Supplying medical facilities with essential drugs and equipment will help stabilize the health crisis.

Mental Health Services: Integrating mental health services into primary healthcare and establishing specialized trauma centers to provide counseling and psychological support for survivors of violence and sexual assault.

Community-Based Support: Creating safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences and receive peer support.

Training community leaders and volunteers in psychological first aid can help rebuild social networks.

Educational Programs: Implementing educational campaigns to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and sexual violence, encouraging survivors to seek help and fostering a supportive community environment.

Demilitarization and Disarmament: Removing military forces and militias from civilian areas to ensure the safety and security of the population.

Long-term recovery in Tigray hinges on rebuilding the region’s infrastructure, revitalizing the economy, and Ensuring accountability for the atrocities committed. All while providing sustainable building efforts.

Key actions include: Reconstruction of Infrastructure: Rebuilding roads, schools, hospitals, and communication networks is essential for restoring normalcy and facilitating aid delivery.

International partnerships and investments can support large-scale infrastructure projects.

Agricultural Rehabilitation: Reviving agriculture by providing seeds, tools, and livestock to farmers, along with training in sustainable farming practices.

Restoring irrigation systems and addressing land degradation are also crucial for food security.

Economic Empowerment: Launching microfinance initiatives and vocational training programs to help people rebuild their livelihoods.

Supporting small businesses and creating job opportunities will stimulate economic recovery and reduce dependence on aid.

Education and Skills Development: Investing in education to equip the younger generation with skills and knowledge for the future. Expanding access to quality education and vocational training is essential for long-term development.

Health System Strengthening: Building a resilient healthcare system that can withstand future shocks. This includes training healthcare professionals, improving health infrastructure, and ensuring a consistent supply of essential medicines.

International Investigations: Supporting the United Nations and other international bodies in conducting thorough investigations into human rights violations.

Establishing mechanisms to hold perpetrators accountable through international courts if necessary.

End to Ethnic Discrimination and Marginalization: Implementing policies that promote inclusivity, equality, and respect for human rights for all ethnic groups in Ethiopia.

Addressing underlying grievances and promoting social cohesion are essential for preventing future conflicts.

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More Information SOURCES AfricaNews. (2024, March 8).

Ethiopia’s Tigray Region on brink of famine amidst conflict and climate crisis. Africanews. https://www.africanews.co m/2024/03/08/ethiopiastigray-region-on-brink-offamine-amidst-conflictand-climate-crisis// Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (2024, April 25).

Tigray.

Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.co m/place/Tigray-historicalregion-Ethiopia Ethiopia - violence in Tigray is causing starvation for millions.

World Food Program USA. (2024, May 8). https://www.wfpusa.org/c ountries/ethiopia/ Gebremichael, M. W., Gebremariam, B., Mitiku, M., Hadush, Z., Tesfay, B., Gerezgiher, A., & Alemu, M. G. (2023, July 13).

Rape survivors’ experience in Tigray: A qualitative study - BMC women’s health. BioMed Central. https://bmcwomenshealth. biomedcentral.com/article s/10.1186/s12905-023025020#:~:text=Because%20the %20excesses%20had%20n o,reproduction%20throug h%20the%20deliberate%2 0and

Support, T. (2022, July 20).

Forced human displacement in the tigray genocide. Omna Tigray. https://omnatigray.org/for ced-human-displacementin-the-tigray-genocide/

Identity Jilted or ReImagining Identity?: The Divergent Paths of the Eritrean and Tigrayan Nationalist Struggles Alemseged Abbay

Tigray conflict. Tigray Conflict | Human Rights Watch. (2023, June 1). https://www.hrw.org/tag/ti gray-conflict

Foundations of an African Civilisation: https://tigrayactioncommit Aksum and the northern tee.com/ Horn, 1000 BC - AD 1300 David W. Phillipson https://www.globalgiving.o rg/projects/tigray-famineThe Essential Guide to and-crisis-relief-fund/ Tigrinya: The Language of Eritrea and Tigray https://www.hpn4tigray.or Ethiopia Andrew g/donate-old/ Tadross, Abraham Teklu https://www.freetigray.com Sweeter Than Honey: /donate Ethiopian Women and Revolution : Testimones of https://omnatigray.org/ Tigrayan Women Jenny Hammond, Nell Druce , https://www.worldvision.or Kebbedesh g.uk/emergencies/tigraycrisis-appeal/ Fire from the Ashes: A Chronicle of the https://donate.unhcr.org/in Revolution in Tigray, t/en/ethiopia-emergency Ethiopia, 1975-1991 Jenny Hammond https://tigraycommunityce nter.org/donations/

Tigray Overview. Omna Tigray. (2022, March 24). https://omnatigray.org/sli de-deck/tigray-overviewdeck/ igray’s war used women’s bodies as battlefields. 3 people shared their stories with me. Global Citizen. (n.d.). https://www.globalcitizen. org/en/content/tigrayviolence-against-womenconflict-stories/ YouTube.

(2024, February 8).

Tigray genocide: Everything you need to know. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/ watch? v=5RGJpnCMXU4&pp= ygUPbmFsZXkgYnkgbm F0dXJl

FURTHER READING

https://tdrfund.org/? gad_source=1&gclid=Cjw KCAjw9IayBhBJEiwAVuc 3frRlGnnspvtBLYbWifcg DUs8N9DL2dotGK95DT PK9XIJGxtiOEukQRoC UzQQAvD_BwE

ACTION

https://www.amnesty.org/e n/petition/demand-fullhumanitarian-access-intotigray/

https://tigrayyouthnetwork .org/ https://www.makeinjeranot war.com/

Understanding Ethiopia's Tigray War Martin Plaut https://www.refugeesintern https://linktr.ee/DWTegar and Sarah Vaughan ational.org/reportsuFoundation briefs/scars-of-war-andWar On Tigray: Genocidal deprivation-an-urgent-callhttps://shopkonjo.com/coll Mellse, M. (2021, January Axis in the Horn of Africa to-reverse-tigraysections/konjo-donations 26). Fleeing War - a Daniel Berhane humanitarian-crisis/ personal experience.

Omna Tigray. https://omnatigray.org/fle eing-war-a-personalexperience/