The US Department of State’s Ambassador of International Criminal Justice, Beth van Schaack, recently visited Ethiopia and called on Ethiopian authorities to remove officials in various positions of responsibility, including military members suspected of participating in human rights violations and currently on trial. Ambassador Beth Van Schaack also recommended that the federal government acknowledge the crimes committed in the country.

Ambassador Beth van Schaack presented these recommendations at a press conference on Wednesday upon returning from visits to several African countries, including Ethiopia.

During her time in Addis Ababa, Ambassador Beth met with various government officials and civil society organizations, such as the Minister of Justice, Hana Araya Selassie, and the Acting Commissioner of the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), Rakeb Mesele. She also participated in an international conference organized by the Ministry of Justice and the Institute of Security Studies, focusing on the transitional justice process in Ethiopia.

Speaking at a press conference yesterday following her return from Africa, the American diplomat stated that while she is encouraged by the progress in the implementation of transitional justice in Ethiopia, she also noted the shrinking civic space and reports of ongoing brutality, particularly in the Amhara and Oromia regions.

Ambassador Beth expressed concern that the lack of freedom of expression may hinder the overall transitional justice process, making it challenging. Speaking to reporters, the diplomat emphasized that without the ability for people to speak the truth, their participation in the justice process is compromised. She also stated that the ongoing conflicts in the two regions should be addressed through political dialogue.

Ambassador Beth mentioned that the government’s actions to establish a framework for comprehensive transitional justice are eagerly awaited. This framework is essential for addressing long-standing brutal acts and ongoing conflicts.

The ambassador also suggested that it would be a significant measure to suspend those suspected of committing violations, particularly those accused of crimes, and place them on administrative leave until a thorough investigation is completed. Another recommendation has been made to the federal government to acknowledge the crimes committed in the country.

The American diplomat expressed readiness to support these processes if they are conducted in a transparent, inclusive, and victim-centered manner. Additionally, she highlighted the government’s willingness to invite international experts to review and provide feedback on the draft law.