In this document the signatory organizations outline our deep concerns with the current transitional justice policy accepted by the Ethiopian Council of Ministers on 17 April 2024. We believe the ongoing conflicts in the Oromia and Amhara regions, the slow progress in implementing the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement in Tigray – alongside reports of ongoing abuses – and the fundamental flaws with the accepted transitional justice policy fail to provide holistic, survivor and victim-centered pathways to peace and justice for all those impacted by the conflict in northern Ethiopia, as well as for victims and survivors of abuses across the country.

It is clear that mass atrocity crimes have taken place and are ongoing in Ethiopia. The commission of these crimes demands accountability for survivors; further investigations into past and ongoing violations in Tigray, Oromia, Amhara and beyond; as well as just reparations and guarantees of non-recurrence. In addition to ending impunity for these violations, comprehensive transitional justice is essential to address root causes, provide remedies to survivors, promote democracy, prevent future violations and ultimately bring about eventual sustainable peace.

While acknowledging the Ethiopian government’s transitional justice policy is in its early stages, there remain serious concerns regarding both the political will and acting capacity of the federal government of Ethiopia to ensure survivors and victims receive the justice they deserve.

This document highlights how acts by the federal government undermine its credibility in undertaking effective transitional justice and accountability in the country, as well as fundamental concerns with the accepted transitional justice policy itself. The document concludes by providing key points for the international community to consider when addressing the ongoing crises in Ethiopia.