Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) on Children and Armed Conflict, Ms. Virginia Gamba. The meeting was arranged to discuss matters of mutual concern in relation to the rights and welfare of children, and more specifically, to exchange views on the preliminary report prepared by the SRSG on the state of violations of rights of children in Ethiopia.
On the occasion, the State Minister conveyed his appreciation for all the efforts exerted by the office of the SRSG to advance the rights of children – but expressed the Government of Ethiopia’s genuine concern on the draft report which had failed to present an accurate description of the nature and gravity of the violations experienced by children especially in relation to the conflict in Northern Ethiopia. Regardless, the State Minister reiterated the Government’s resolve to assume full responsibility for the protection of human rights of children and investigate all violations. Mr. Alemate also seized the occasion to clarify on some of legal and institutional reforms adopted by Ethiopia – including within the framework of the Inter-Ministerial Taskforce on Accountability and Redress and through the initiation of the development of a comprehensive and context-specific transitional justice policy.
On her part, Ms. Gamba appreciated the Government of Ethiopia’s willingness to host the delegation. Ms. Gamba further explained that the report solely aims to trigger constructive engagement with the respective governments and facilitate a gradual change in reforms and behaviour.
The Special Representative also pledged to exert effort to mobilize resources required to facilitate enhanced implementation of the various rights of children in Ethiopia.
