The UNHCR has called for improved protective measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia, noting that around 20,000 Eritreans have entered the country since January. Enhanced registration processes are essential for providing access to key services and reducing risks of human trafficking. Ethiopia hosts over one million refugees, making its role vital in this humanitarian landscape.
The UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency, has issued a clarion call for the enhancement of protective measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers arriving in Ethiopia. These individuals have predominantly crossed into Ethiopia via the northern Afar and Tigray regions, in pursuit of international protection and essential support. The agency indicated that approximately 20,000 Eritreans entered Ethiopia since the beginning of the year, adding to the existing population of over 70,000 Eritrean refugees already registered in the country. The importance of providing early support to these newly arrived individuals cannot be overstated. Registration and documentation are critical components in establishing robust protective frameworks for refugees. The UNHCR has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Ethiopian government in expanding access to registration for Eritrean asylum-seekers, underscoring that such processes are vital for ensuring access to fundamental services, such as healthcare, education, family reunification, and employment rights within Ethiopia. Moreover, timely registration can serve as a preventive measure against human trafficking risks among this vulnerable population. Ethiopia, being the third-largest host of refugees in Africa, accommodates over one million refugees and asylum-seekers, primarily from neighboring countries like South Sudan, Somalia, and Eritrea. The call for enhanced protective measures thus aligns with Ethiopia’s significant role in hosting refugees and ensuring their safety and well-being.
Eritrean asylum-seekers have increasingly sought refuge in Ethiopia, a country that has traditionally hosted large numbers of refugees from various neighboring regions. The UNHCR’s call for strengthening protective measures stems from the rising inflow of Eritreans since January, as the sociopolitical conditions in Eritrea push many to flee their homeland. As Ethiopia grapples with the influx, the emphasis on swift registration highlights the need to provide essential services and mitigate risks faced by refugees, particularly in a region characterized by historical tensions and humanitarian crises.
In summary, the UNHCR has taken a proactive stance in advocating for improved protective measures for Eritrean asylum-seekers in Ethiopia. With a significant number of new arrivals, the need for registration and support services has become imperative. Collaborating with the Ethiopian government to enhance these processes will not only facilitate immediate assistance but also contribute to long-term integration and safety for refugees. The situation underscores Ethiopia’s crucial role as a host nation for millions of displaced individuals.
Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz
