Stop Amhara Genocide Releases Alarming Report on Escalating Attacks Against Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. – April 5, 2024 – Stop Amhara Genocide, a human rights organization dedicated to raising awareness about the ongoing Amhara genocide in Ethiopia, has released a comprehensive report detailing the escalating attacks on Orthodox Christians in the country. The report, titled “The Escalating Attacks on Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia,” sheds light on the systematic persecution, violence, and discrimination faced by adherents of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, one of the oldest Christian denominations in the world.

The report highlights the alarming trend of attackers targeting Orthodox Christians, viewing their faith as synonymous with the Amhara people. Tragically, the assailants have explicitly stated their intention to destroy the Orthodox Church as a means to eradicate the Amhara population. The report documents numerous incidents of violence, including the burning of churches, the killing of clergy and congregants, and the kidnapping and murder of priests.

Stop Amhara Genocide calls upon the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom to lead efforts for an independent international investigation into these egregious violations of religious freedom and human rights in Ethiopia. The organization also urges the U.S. Congress to draft a resolution imposing sanctions on the Ethiopian government if it fails to cooperate with the investigation and take meaningful steps to address the persecution of Orthodox Christians.

“The international community must stand in solidarity with the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and its followers, condemning these heinous acts of violence and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable,” said Yodith Gideon, Director at Stop Amhara Genocide. “Failure to act swiftly and decisively risks further deterioration of the situation and perpetuates the suffering of innocent individuals and communities.”

The report also highlights the ongoing government interference in church affairs, including the suspension of salaries and legal charges against outspoken clergy members who have criticized the administration’s actions.

Stop Amhara Genocide emphasizes the urgent need for the international community to uphold the fundamental principles of religious freedom and tolerance and work towards ending the persecution of Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia.