Urgent appeal from the Tigray Youth Affairs Office
The Youth Affairs Office of the Interim Government of Tigray has issued an urgent appeal to international humanitarian bodies and national authorities alike to act swiftly on the plight of Ethiopian migrants stranded in Yemen. In a statement released this week, the office urged the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Ethiopian Red Cross Society to coordinate a structured repatriation program that prioritizes safety, dignity, and timely return for those who wish to come home. The appeal comes as fears grow over deteriorating conditions for migrants in the Yemeni context, where many Ethiopians have faced economic hardship, violence, and restricted access to basic services.
Context: Why migrants are stranded in Yemen
Historically, large numbers of Ethiopians have worked abroad in the Gulf and neighboring regions, with Yemen serving as a transit point or temporary shelter for those who lose work or face displacement. In recent years, the security situation, fluctuating border controls, and economic instability have complicated the lives of migrant workers. The Tigray government’s call highlights concerns that vulnerable communities may be at heightened risk during repatriation efforts, and underscores the need for comprehensive protection measures, including medical screening and psychological support.
What the Tigray government seeks from partners
The statement outlines several concrete asks aimed at IOM, the Ethiopian Red Cross Society, and other international partners:
– A coordinated repatriation timeline that minimizes risk and disruption to families;
– Safe passage arrangements, with clear protocols for transport, documentation, and reception facilities in Ethiopia;
– Adequate health and psychosocial support for returnees, including vaccination, counseling, and shelter access;
– Transparent data sharing to track the number of people affected and to monitor the impacts of repatriation on communities in both Yemen and Ethiopia;
– A sustainable reintegration framework that helps returnees find livelihoods and education opportunities upon arrival.
The Youth Affairs Office emphasized that repatriation should be voluntary and informed, with ongoing consultation with returning migrants and their families to respect autonomy and dignity throughout the process.
Humanitarian considerations and safety
Experts note that repatriation operations carry significant humanitarian considerations. Ensuring informed consent, non-discrimination, and the protection of minors are central to any credible plan. The Tigray government’s appeal stresses that medical readiness, including screening for infectious diseases and vaccination, must accompany any movement. Additionally, safe accommodations at reception sites, nutrition, and access to essential services are highlighted as non-negotiable components of responsible repatriation.
The broader regional impact
Echoing concerns from civil society groups, the call from Tigray reflects broader regional fears about migration governance in the Horn of Africa. Repatriation is not only about returning people to their homeland but also about ensuring that the process does not exacerbate poverty, family separation, or social instability. By engaging IOM and the Ethiopian Red Cross Society, the Tigray administration signals a commitment to a multilateral, human-centered approach that can serve as a model for future migrations across borders in the region.
What comes next?
Observers will be watching closely to see how international partners respond to the appeal. If a formal agreement is reached, the coming weeks could see a coordinated wave of repatriations, with community-based organizations preparing for a warm welcome and reintegration support. The situation remains fluid, but the core message from Tigray is clear: protecting the rights and wellbeing of Ethiopian migrants, wherever they are, remains a shared responsibility requiring urgent, practical action.
