The International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have issued a stark warning regarding the increasing internal displacement in Ethiopia, driven by ongoing conflict and climate shocks. This displacement crisis is reversing decades of poverty reduction efforts, and the agencies assert that humanitarian aid alone is insufficient to address the underlying issues.
During a recent meeting in Addis Ababa, leaders from the three UN agencies, including IOM’s Ugochi Daniels, UNDP’s Shoko Noda, and UNHCR’s Raouf Mazou, launched a new national strategy aimed at strengthening government-led development and peacebuilding initiatives while addressing immediate humanitarian needs.
Despite Ethiopia lifting 15 million people out of poverty in recent years, the country has faced significant setbacks due to various crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts, droughts, and floods. These challenges have left many internally displaced individuals without access to essential services and livelihoods.
“The plight of internally displaced people in Ethiopia is not solely a humanitarian issue. It requires comprehensive recovery and development solutions,” stated Shoko Noda, Director of the UNDP Crisis Bureau. “Many displaced individuals need access to basic social services, protection, decent work, and livelihood opportunities. We will accelerate our efforts for recovery and resilience building.”
Host communities are also feeling the strain as they face increased pressure on infrastructure and resources, leading to higher poverty levels. This situation is exacerbated by a decline in international financial support for Ethiopia; Official Development Assistance (ODA) fell from $4.7 billion in 2020 to $2.7 billion in 2022, according to UNDP.
Currently, Ethiopia’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan is only 47% funded from donor and government sources. The Ethiopian government is working alongside the UN to address immediate needs while simultaneously focusing on governance improvements, investing in social services and economic opportunities, and creating conditions for the voluntary safe return, resettlement, and integration of displaced individuals.
The UN emphasizes that government-led, development-focused solutions are crucial for Ethiopia’s long-term recovery. This approach aligns with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda on Internal Displacement, under which Ethiopia is one of 15 countries selected to implement durable solutions.
“By supporting climate action, peacebuilding, and durable solutions to displacement, we can help Ethiopia achieve developmental progress while alleviating suffering for millions,” said Raouf Mazou, UNHCR’s Assistant High Commissioner for Operations. He called on donors to support these efforts in line with the UN Secretary-General’s Action Agenda.
The newly launched Durable Solutions Strategy promotes an integrated approach that combines humanitarian assistance with development initiatives and peacebuilding efforts. As global displacement reaches unprecedented levels—over 122 million people displaced as of June 2024—the UN remains committed to finding innovative solutions worldwide.
“The endorsement of the National Durable Solutions Strategy in Ethiopia is a milestone toward implementing the Action Agenda,” stated Ugochi Daniels, IOM Deputy Director General for Operations. “After years of concerted efforts, Ethiopia is ready to enhance cooperation with regional authorities for coordinated planning that supports displaced communities in rebuilding their lives.”
The collaboration among these UN agencies signifies a critical step forward in addressing internal displacement in Ethiopia. By prioritizing long-term solutions alongside immediate humanitarian aid, there is hope for restoring stability and fostering resilience among affected populations as the country navigates its complex challenges.
