The Commission of Inquiry on Tigray Genocide Reveals Widespread Ecological Collapse in Tigray.

The Commission of Inquiry on Tigray Genocide has released a detailed report outlining extensive environmental destruction in the Tigray region, stemming from the war that erupted in November 2020.

According to the report, assessments conducted across six zones and all accessible districts estimate the total damage and loss at over $46 billion, with the forestry sector identified as the hardest hit.

The findings attribute the devastation to military operations, heavy artillery strikes, widespread looting, and the collapse of local governance systems during and after the devastating war. These factors have led to massive deforestation, severe soil erosion, and widespread ecological degradation.

The report states that the majority of the damage was “perpetrated by the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, the Eritrean Defense Forces, and Amhara Regional State Forces,” with multiple actors contributing to the destruction. The Commission documented the loss of over 145,000 hectares of soil and water conservation structures, the destruction of more than 600,000 hectares of forest, and significant environmental pollution caused by chemical dumping and improper waste disposal.

Additionally, the Commission noted the disappearance of numerous wildlife species, substantial losses in livestock, fish populations, and beekeeping, and the eradication of unique crop varieties adapted to the region’s climate. The report warns that these impacts will have long-term consequences for daily life, food security, and ecological stability in Tigray.

Citing that “the war was intended to destroy the region’s natural resources,” the Commission called for urgent recovery and restoration efforts, including reforestation, air pollution mitigation, wildlife reintroduction, and ecosystem rehabilitation. It also recommended compensation-based recovery programs and further research to fully quantify the extent of the damage.

In a previous report released on October 29, 2025, the Commission estimated $11 billion in damage to the social sector, primarily attributed to Eritrean forces. The education sector suffered losses of $5.34 billion, followed by $3.3.59 billion in the health sector. Damage to social welfare and community services was estimated at $2.72 million.

The report concluded by stating that the Eritrean Defense Forces were responsible for “the lion’s share of the destruction,” and further accused the Ethiopian National Defense Forces of contributing significantly to the damage and other forces.