The launch of the demobilisation phase of the Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) process in Ethiopia has garnered international support and praise from various partners. This collaborative effort between the National Rehabilitation Commission (NRC), the Government of Ethiopia, the Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA), and the United Nations (UN) marks a significant milestone towards lasting peace and reconciliation in the country.
Supported by global partners such as the African Union, Canada, the European Union, India, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States, the demobilisation process aims to discharge 371,971 combatants, with 75,000 combatants set to be demobilised in its initial phase. This initiative represents the largest DDR effort globally and is crucial in its scale and impact on promoting peace and stability in Ethiopia.
The launch of the demobilisation process coincides with the second anniversary of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA), highlighting its significance in advancing sustainable peace in the region. International partners have commended the Government of Ethiopia, TIRA, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), the NRC, and the UN for their commitment to peacebuilding efforts and their dedication to implementing the DDR program.
Representatives from various countries have expressed their support for Ethiopia’s peacebuilding initiatives. Canada’s Ambassador Joshua Tabah emphasized the importance of the DDR program in maintaining peace, while the European Union’s Ambassador-designate Sofie From-Emmesberger praised Ethiopia for its resilience and determination in pursuing lasting peace. Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States also lauded Ethiopia’s efforts in implementing the demobilisation process and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the country’s peacebuilding endeavors.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has played a crucial role in managing the multi-partner program in support of Ethiopia’s DDR, emphasizing the importance of demobilising and reintegrating ex-combatants into the community to build sustainable peace.
In conclusion, the launch of the demobilisation phase of the DDR process in Ethiopia reflects a significant step towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the country. The support and collaboration of international partners underscore the global commitment to promoting peacebuilding efforts in Ethiopia and ensuring a prosperous future for all Ethiopians.
