The Somali region in ethiopia: a neglected human rights tragedy

Abstract

This article reviews Ethiopia's human rights record with a particular focus on the human rights situation in the Somali region. Attention is paid to the atrocities committed against civilians, specifically community and political leaders as well as members of the Somali State legislature. Furthermore, the 2000 famine is discussed as a human rights issue in the light of indications that this famine was deliberately choreographed. The article also explores human rights violations inflicted upon the Somali region's population following the discovery of natural gas and the denial of benefits thereof to the local community. In conclusion some future scenarios are examined to ascertain to what extent they might possibly change the prospects for the people in the Somali region.