Canada resumes military cooperation with Ethiopia despite genocide allegations from the Tigray conflict. The decision raises concerns about ongoing civilian casualties from Ethiopian military actions. Critics argue that there is insufficient accountability for past crimes and that collaboration could restart abuses against civilians. The focus remains on ensuring compliance with human rights and international law in military engagements.
Canada has recommenced its military co-operation with Ethiopia, despite prior accusations of genocide against the Ethiopian military during the Tigray conflict. The collaboration was suspended three years ago due to the reported killing of thousands of civilians by Ethiopian forces. The recent decision incorporates Ethiopia back into Canada’s Military Training and Co-operation Program (MTCP), raising concerns from human-rights advocates regarding ongoing civilian deaths linked to Ethiopian airstrikes and artillery.
The MTCP, involving over 60 countries, aims to enhance military capabilities in non-NATO nations. An internal memo revealed that Canada will focus on “non-lethal” forms of collaboration. It indicates that Canada acknowledges Ethiopia’s “initial progress” towards peace and accountability regarding its military tactics. This renewed partnership is seen as a strategic entry point for addressing human-rights issues in Ethiopia, a significant geopolitical player.
Reports of recent civilian casualties continue to raise alarm, particularly from airstrikes in Amhara, with a noted incident causing 16 civilian deaths. Although airstrikes have diminished in frequency, Ethiopian military actions still pose threats to civilians through indiscriminate artillery fire. Additionally, the potential for conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea looms as Ethiopian troops mobilize towards the border, further complicating the security situation.
The Canadian Department of National Defence stated that it would only provide “small-scale training activities” to Ethiopia initially. The spokesperson mentioned that reintegration into the MTCP might spur improvements within the Ethiopian Armed Forces rather than isolation. Critics of the decision, such as former Canadian justice minister Allan Rock, have condemned the resumption of military ties as unacceptable without ensuring accountability for the military’s previous actions. Rock highlighted the risk of further aggression against civilians should the relationship be strengthened.
Reports by various organizations have documented extensive human rights violations by the Ethiopian military during the Tigray conflict, which was labeled one of the deadliest wars of the 21st century, leading to substantial civilian casualties and suffering. Human-rights lawyer Sarah Teich expressed alarm at Canada’s renewed military dealings, arguing that the situation has not sufficiently improved to justify collaboration. Civilians in Tigray remain vulnerable as accountability for these crimes remains elusive, prompting calls for Canada to prioritize international law compliance in any military training.
Experts emphasize the need for rigorous monitoring and conditions in military collaboration to ensure adherence to international human rights standards, reinstating the importance of protecting civilian life in conflict regions.
In summary, Canada’s decision to revive military co-operation with Ethiopia has ignited significant controversy, considering the country’s ongoing human rights violations during the Tigray conflict. Many experts and former officials have criticized the move as premature and potentially harmful. They emphasize the need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law while cautioning against providing any form of military support without robust oversight and ethical considerations.
Original Source: www.theglobeandmail.com
