Protection Ethiopia

In recent years, Ethiopia has been faced with a succession of multiple crises, compounding humanitarian needs throughout the country. The two-year conflict in the north ended in November 2022 with the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, but internal and inter-community conflicts persist, disrupting civilian lives and increasing demand for aid. More than 21.4 million people are currently in need of humanitarian assistance. 

In this context, stabilisation efforts are essential to avoid further population displacements, promote reconstruction, and realise the benefits of peace. 

The conflict has also led to a sharp increase in gender-based violence (GBV), with 7.2 million survivors identified in 2024. This violence, in particular sexual violence, has a profound effect on the physical and mental health of the victims and can generate community tensions if it is not dealt with.

The objective of the Protection Ethiopia project, financed by the Crisis and Support Centre of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is to support communities affected by the conflict in the Afar and Tigray regions. It aims to address the socio-economic and protection needs of communities. 

Special emphasis will be placed on survivors of gender-based violence to provide a response closely geared to their needs for healthcare, safety, and justice. The project will also help these survivors and vulnerable groups get involved in livelihood initiatives to build their resilience and support their recovery process.