02/10/2025
Joint Message from Eight Civil Society Organizations
We, the undersigned civil society organizations of Tigray, strongly believe that there is no political challenge that cannot be resolved through peaceful dialogue. Attempting to address political disagreements through war is both destructive and unsustainable for Tigray.
The people of Tigray are still grappling with the devastating consequences of the recent genocidal war, during which hundreds of thousands of women suffered sexual violence and continue to live without adequate treatment and support. Even in the absence of active conflict, political and social instability has contributed to ongoing violence, including murder and r**e. Renewed civil war would only deepen these wounds and prolong the suffering of our communities.
We therefore urge all political and military leaders to engage in peaceful dialogue as the only viable path to resolve differences. Resorting to war will only increase civilian suffering, particularly among women and other vulnerable groups, and will be a grave irresponsibility both morally and legally.
At the same time, we call upon all Tigrayans, within the region and in the diaspora, to play an active role in preventing further conflict. Collective pressure from citizens on political and military actors is essential to ensure dialogue prevails over violence.
Ending the threat of civil war in Tigray is not only a political necessity but also a humanitarian imperative. By preventing new cycles of violence, we can focus our collective energy on supporting survivors, alleviating suffering, and rebuilding our society.
War harms all, but its impact falls most heavily on women. Stopping civil war is therefore a critical step toward protecting lives and ensuring justice and recovery for the people of Tigray.
Human Rights First!!