Ethiopia is home to over one million refugees and asylum seekers, primarily from South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea. The recent conflict in Sudan has led to an influx of displaced persons. A new initiative was launched to provide digital identity documents to refugees to facilitate their inclusion in the national system.
Ethiopia stands as the third largest host of refugees in Africa, currently accommodating over one million refugees and asylum seekers. A significant number of these individuals hail from South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea. With the onset of armed conflict in Sudan in April 2023, Ethiopia has witnessed a surge in the arrival of forcibly displaced persons across various entry points.
On 6 March 2024, a collaborative initiative was launched by the Ethiopian government’s Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), in conjunction with the National ID Program (NIDP) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This initiative aims to issue digital identity documents, a strategic effort designed to enhance the inclusion of refugees within the national framework.
In conclusion, Ethiopia’s role as a prominent refugee host country is underscored by its compassionate response to the escalating crisis caused by conflicts in neighboring regions. The recent initiatives for issuing digital identity documents affirm the government’s commitment to integrating refugees into the national system, thereby fostering their inclusion and support.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
