Ethiopia: Further protests likely in Hawassa (SNNRP region) /update 1

Event

Hundreds of women protested in the city of Hawassa located in the Southern Nation, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNRP) on Tuesday, April 9, to call for a referendum on self-determination. Further protests are likely in the coming days and weeks. A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of any demonstration.

Context

A similar protest was held on February 21, to demand the region to be granted an autonomous status. In 2018, President Abiy Ahmed has pledged the demand would be taken into consideration in accordance with the constitution; however, the process was since then delayed.

Advice

Individuals present in Hawassa are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home government.