25 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The International Community of Tigray Scholars and Professionals (ICTP) and the Global Society of Tigray Scholars and Professionals (GSTS) are urging for fundamental political and economic reforms in Tigray as a path towards sustainable peace and reconstruction.
Following six months of discussions with various stakeholders, including Tigray political parties, security leaders, and civil societies, the groups identified 16 key points they believe are crucial for addressing the region’s ongoing challenges.
They highlighted the need of full implementation and support for the Pretoria Peace Agreement, National reconciliation and a new future, Separation of political and government structures, ensuring humanitarian aid delivery, and Prioritizing Tigray’s reconstruction.
This agreement, signed in November 2022, aimed to end the two-year conflict between the Ethiopian government and Tigrayan forces and the scholars emphasize the need for healing and rebuilding trust across the nation.
The scholars urge dedicated efforts towards rebuilding infrastructure and livelihoods in the region and establishing neutral and accountable security forces is seen as crucial for stability.
The scholars also propose reform to ensure transparency, effective leadership, and private sector participation in reconstruction efforts.
Dr. Gebre Kidan Gebreselassie, chairman of the GSTS, emphasized the need for “fundamental political and economic reforms” in Tigray.
Dr. Solomon Mezgebu, another member of the international community, echoed this sentiment, stating that Tigray’s “political environment should be democratic” and its “economy should not be controlled by individuals.”
The scholars and professionals believe that implementing these proposed solutions will pave the way for lasting peace, stability, and development in Tigray.
They have called for the establishment of a task force to oversee the implementation of these recommendations
