Rights groups urge UN Human Rights Council to hold special session on Ethiopia

A coalition of human rights groups has formally requested the UN Human Rights Council to convene a special session regarding the escalating conflict in Ethiopia. The organizations argue that the 2022 Cessation of Hostilities Agreement has collapsed, increasing the likelihood of new atrocities against civilians. They expressed concern that Ethiopia's transitional justice process has stalled significantly. Additionally, the groups criticized the recent decision to end the mandate of the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia (ICHREE). The coalition warned that the lack of international oversight and accountability mechanisms creates a dangerous environment that puts civilian lives at serious risk.