Protest – White House: Nov. 10th @1pm
As an unofficial world war appears to take shape, many take false comfort in the absence of a “pre-world war” narrative in mainstream media. Yet, the signs are increasingly clear and troubling: persistent inflation, threats to food security, and a marked decline in the value placed on human life. The Geneva Academy has highlighted an alarming rise in active non-international armed conflicts (NIACs), with many actors delaying critical negotiations. Their data reveals over 80 armed conflicts currently active in Asia Minor and Africa combined, underscoring the widespread instability and violence impacting these regions.
This expanding landscape of conflict brings global repercussions, deepening humanitarian crises and increasing economic strain. Addressing these challenges requires rapid diplomatic engagement and conflict-resolution efforts, as ongoing delays only compound the suffering and loss in affected regions.
The systems and frameworks once relied upon to manage international peace now appear to be struggling to adapt to modern conflicts. Unfortunately, efforts to overthrow outdated governmental practices or leaders often come at an enormous human cost, particularly when modern warfare technologies are recklessly deployed. Communities are left devastated, and there is minimal accountability for the parties that wield these advanced weapons with little regard for human life or infrastructure.
Given the concerning trajectory of multiple international military conflicts, the Nobel Peace Prize committee’s decision to honor Nihon Hidankyo of Japan in 2024 highlights a timely and critical stance. Founded in 1956, this organization has relentlessly promoted anti-nuclear policies and has been instrumental in advocating for healthcare and support for survivors of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Nihon Hidankyo’s decades of dedication underscore the urgent need for international focus on peace, and perhaps it’s time for similar advocacy for anti-drone policies under the UN Security Council’s purview. However, in recent years the credibility of international organizations like the U.N. has been declining due to their bias and delayed responses.
A Call for Anti-Drone Policies
To address the urgent need for international regulation, rapid implementation of legislation banning the use of drones and advanced AI military technologies, particularly against civilian populations, is critical. Such a ban, enforced with strict penalties, could help prevent the misuse of these technologies by oppressive regimes. While the United Nations has been working to establish broader frameworks for counter-drone regulations, emphasizing ethical considerations, enforcement remains inconsistent as many countries are still developing their policies for drone use in civilian and military contexts. This gap in regulation has already led to troubling casualty rates.
Policy architects must recognize the mounting human toll, with particular attention to the actions of leaders such as Abiy Ahmed and the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), which has reportedly used drones in operations targeting resource control and carrying out violence against other ethnic groups. The situation is exacerbated by international financial support from institutions like the IMF, further empowering these actions and setting a dangerous precedent. Strengthened international cooperation and accountability mechanisms are essential to counter such abuses, promoting both ethical standards in technology use and the protection of global human rights.
Drone Warfare and Its Impact on Civilians in Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, 2019 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Abiy Ahmed has faced mounting opposition to his award. Many Ethiopians, disillusioned by his governance, have rallied against him, circulating petitions to revoke the prize. Critics argue that his mismanagement of resources and his actions in office, particularly in the wake of his declared state of emergency, have fueled tensions rather than fostering peace. The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), under his command, has conducted multiple-drone strikes specifically targeting Amhara civilians, with reports of attacks on ambulances, hospitals, places of worship, schools, and open markets.
Reports have also surfaced suggesting that Ethiopian Airlines, the national carrier, has been used to transport military equipment and ENDF soldiers under Ahmed’s directive. The drones used in these operations reportedly come from Baykar Defense, a defense manufacturer based in Turkey. Many Ethiopians and observers are increasingly alarmed, especially since the 11 billion dollars transacted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reportedly bolstered Ahmed’s capacity to continue military operations. This development has led to widespread condemnation and serious concerns over the ethical implications of providing financial resources to a government accused of perpetuating violence against its own people.
The drone attacks in Amhara have indeed been frequent and complex, with reports citing various incidents across different towns, each impacting numerous civilians. Here are additional examples that reflect the severity and reach of these attacks since the disarmament order:
Recorded Incidents Spanning Two Years
Finote Selam Incident (August 13, 2023): This strike resulted in at least 30 civilian deaths, including
children, and over 55 injuries, overwhelming local healthcare facilities due to blocked roads and limited access for ambulances
Debre Birhan and Debre Markos (Multiple Attacks, October 2023): A report from the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission documented consecutive strikes in these cities, with each incident causing several fatalities. For example, on October 16, a strike in Met’teh Bila killed multiple civilians, followed by another attack three days later in Debre Markos, which led to eight more civilian deaths.
Bahir Dar and Gondar Strikes (August and September 2023): Witnesses in these cities reported drone strikes targeting central locations, with reports estimating up to 50 civilian casualties combined. These strikes also reportedly targeted infrastructure, displacing hundreds in affected areas.
Shewa Robit and Dessie Clashes (Late September 2023): Attacks in Shewa Robit and Dessie left numerous casualties, with conflicting reports estimating dozens of fatalities. The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) has been criticized for targeting civilian-heavy zones, escalating the humanitarian toll.
Human rights organizations, including OHCHR and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, have documented these and additional attacks, expressing concern over the scale and indiscriminate nature of the strikes. These incidents reflect broader patterns of violence and highlight the challenging conditions for civilians across Amhara since the state of emergency was declared.
In 2024, the Ethiopian Amhara region has experienced multiple drone attacks that have resulted in significant civilian casualties, particularly since the government intensified its disarmament efforts against the Fano militia. Key incidents include: October 1–4: In North Gojam, drone strikes reportedly targeted areas with high civilian presence, including homes and the Mehal Genet Health Center, killing over 100 civilians, among them a child. The political cartoon above is a depiction of this incident. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has been investigating the impacts of these strikes, which reportedly left dozens dead and injured across affected towns like Ayimba and Gerchich. October 8: In Debre Markos, a separate drone attack killed eight civilians, and other attacks in locations like Finote Selam left at least 26 dead. The conflict’s toll has led to over 3,000 residents fleeing, along with damage to health centers, homes, and religious sites.
Local and international human rights organizations are raising an alarm over the escalating violence in Ethiopia’s Amhara region. Recent reports highlight indiscriminate drone attacks on civilian infrastructure and communities, sparking urgent calls for accountability and transparency. Despite these calls, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has heavily restricted access to the region, making it nearly impossible for humanitarian organizations and media to report the full extent of these attacks. NGOs have been forced to withdraw, and restrictions have led to a significant underreporting of the number of internally displaced persons (IDPs), which conveniently downplays the need for aid in Amhara.
The time to take action is now. The Amhara community, along with supporters and advocates for human rights, are coming together to raise awareness and demand justice for the innocent civilians affected. Join us this Sunday, November 10th at 1 p.m. in front of the White House. Let’s make it clear that we stand against these violations, demand a stop to the indiscriminate airstrikes, and call for an end to the suppression of aid to affected communities. Every voice counts—together, we can bring attention to these injustices and push for real change. Stand with us in solidarity to urge for transparency, international investigation, and, above all, the protection of innocent lives.
Be part of a movement demanding accountability and transparency, as well as immediate humanitarian aid for the Amhara region. Every voice adds to the momentum for real change, so let’s amplify this call for justice together. Rally with the Amhara community and allies worldwide to show that the world is watching and will not remain silent.
Other resources:
Ethiopia: Army Attacks Health Care in Amhara Conflict | Human Rights Watch
