Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – An extensive investigation by Human Rights First Ethiopia has uncovered troubling evidence of discriminatory practices in the issuance of passports to Tigrayan natives by the Immigration and Citizenship Service. The report highlights systemic abuses and violations of constitutional rights, sparking calls for immediate reforms to address these issues.
Investigation Findings
The Human Rights First Ethiopia report details how Tigrayan natives are subjected to biased treatment when applying for passports. The organization, operating under Civil Society Organizations Proclamation No. 1113/2011, conducted its investigation by speaking directly with affected individuals and observing the processing procedures at the Immigration and Citizenship Service.
Key Issues Identified:
1. Discriminatory Office Practices: Tigrayan applicants are often directed to a specific office (No. 07) where they face additional scrutiny and harsh treatment. Reports from applicants describe a hostile environment, with staff exhibiting discriminatory behavior and a lack of respect for Tigrayan natives.
2. Case Studies Highlight Injustices:
– Mr. Gebre Christos (Pseudonym): A prosecutor with the Ministry of Justice was incorrectly labeled as Eritrean and denied a passport despite his clear Ethiopian citizenship with a position that requires Ethiopian citizenship. His experience underscores the broader impact of these discriminatory practices.
– Mr. Atsbeha Gebre (Pseudonym): A long-time Addis Ababa resident was required to provide documents from deceased relatives, demonstrating the arbitrary and unreasonable demands placed on Tigrayan natives.
– Adey Letheran (Pseudonym): A 70-year-old man, again a long time resident in Addis Ababa, faced repeated refusals unless he provided IDs from deceased parents, illustrating the bureaucratic obstacles that hinder passport issuance.
– Berhan (Pseudonym): A 19-year-old from Tigray was denied a passport despite providing all required documents, as additional demands were placed on her, including proof from a destroyed school in Tigray due to the war.
Legal Violations
The report identifies several constitutional violations, including:
– Article 33: The right to Ethiopian citizenship cannot be arbitrarily stripped. Denying Tigrayan natives their citizenship rights contravenes this principle.
– Article 25: All individuals are entitled to equal protection under the law. The discriminatory practices against Tigrayan applicants violate this constitutional guarantee.
– Article 32: The right to freedom of movement, including obtaining a passport, is being restricted through arbitrary and discriminatory practices.
Recommendations for Reform
Human Rights First Ethiopia calls for urgent reforms to address these issues:
1. Ensure Constitutional Compliance: Immediate action is needed to uphold the rights guaranteed by Articles 6, 25, 32, and 33 of the Constitution. The Immigration and Citizenship Service must eliminate discriminatory practices.
2. Equal Service Provision: Passport issuance procedures must be standardized to ensure that Tigrayan citizens receive the same level of service as other citizens.
3. Streamlined Procedures: Establish a new service branch in the Tigray region and implement uniform procedures to simplify and expedite passport applications.
4. Legislative and Institutional Reforms: Introduce clear directives to prevent arbitrary demands and ensure fair treatment for all passport applicants.
Legal Action
Human Rights First Ethiopia has warned that if these issues are not addressed, the organization will pursue legal action under Federal Courts Decree No. 1234/2013. The aim is to correct systemic injustices and enforce the constitutional rights of Ethiopian citizens.
The findings of this report cast a spotlight on serious flaws within the Immigration and Citizenship Service and emphasize the need for immediate reform to protect the rights of all Ethiopians, including Tigrayans.
This news report is based on the investigative research conducted by Human Rights First Ethiopia.
