The Pretoria Agreement, signed in November 2022, brought a glimmer of hope to the war-torn Tigray region in Ethiopia. After two years of brutal conflict, the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) agreed to a cessation of hostilities, disarmament, and humanitarian access. However, the road to sustainable peace remains long and treacherous, with the agreement facing significant challenges.
Early Signs of Progress:
Reduced Hostilities: Since the signing, large-scale fighting has ceased, creating a much-needed respite for civilians.
Humanitarian Aid: Aid agencies have gained better access to deliver life-saving assistance to millions in need.
Prisoner Exchange: The exchange of prisoners of war was a positive step towards building trust.
Disarmament: Both sides have begun exchanging heavy weaponry under the supervision of the African Union Monitoring, Verification, and Compliance Mission (AU-MVCM).
Persistent Challenges:
Eritrean Withdrawal: Eritrean troops, who fought alongside Ethiopian forces and committed atrocities, remain in Tigray, violating a key provision of the agreement.
Internal Divisions: Within both the Ethiopian government and the TPLF, hardliners who oppose the agreement continue to wield influence.
Justice and Accountability: Addressing war crimes and human rights abuses is crucial for healing and reconciliation, but progress has been slow.
Disarmament Verification: The disarmament process is complex and lacks transparency, raising concerns about its effectiveness.
Humanitarian Obstacles: Despite improved access, bureaucratic hurdles and insecurity still hamper aid delivery in some areas.
International Support:
The international community has played a crucial role in facilitating the agreement and providing financial and logistical support.
Continued pressure on all parties to adhere to the agreement and address challenges is essential. The recent UK aid commitment to support the AU-MVCM is a positive development.
The Future of Peace:
The success of the Pretoria Agreement hinges on overcoming these challenges. Continued international engagement, unwavering commitment from both parties, and addressing the root causes of the conflict are all necessary for a lasting peace. While the agreement has brought a fragile ceasefire, true peace requires genuine reconciliation, justice, and a commitment to building a more inclusive Ethiopia
