Press Release, Empowering Civil Society and Humanitarian Outreach – ECHO

Condemnation of the Killings, Injuries, and Destruction of Property in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region, Arsi Zone

We are deeply saddened and alarmed by the recent violence in Arsi, Ethiopia, which has reportedly claimed the lives of more than 10 people, injured many others, and resulted in the widespread burning of homes and destruction of property. The victims are members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian community. According to church officials, more than 280 households were displaced, and a century-old Orthodox church was reportedly burned to the ground. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and stand in solidarity with those who have been injured, displaced, or otherwise affected by these tragic events.

We strongly condemn the killings, other acts of violence, and the destruction of civilian property. Such actions are unacceptable and represent a grave violation of the rights, dignity, and security of the affected communities.

We are particularly concerned that these incidents do not appear to be isolated. Similar attacks have occurred repeatedly, raising serious concerns about a pattern of identity-based violence targeting Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. The continued recurrence of such attacks highlights the urgent need for stronger protection of vulnerable communities and meaningful accountability for those responsible.

We call upon the Government of Ethiopia to fulfill its responsibility to protect all citizens without discrimination and to ensure accountability. The government must take immediate and tangible steps to identify those responsible and hold them accountable through a credible, transparent, and impartial process. It should also adopt concrete and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents and address the root causes of recurring violence, including identity-based attacks.

We further call for an independent, impartial, and thorough investigation into these incidents to establish the facts, ensure justice for the victims, and help prevent future occurrences.

We also urge civil society organizations, community leaders, religious institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to work together in responding effectively to this crisis. Coordinated efforts are needed to support affected communities, monitor and document violations, promote peace, advocate for justice, and contribute to long-term solutions that safeguard human rights, freedom of religion or belief, and social cohesion.

At this difficult time, we stand with the victims and their families and reaffirm our commitment to peace, justice, accountability, freedom of religion or belief, and the protection of human rights for all.