What is Peace Agreement of November 2022?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The immediate cessation of hostilities was the core of the agreement. This meant a ceasefire between the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) forces. The goal was to stop the fighting and create an environment conducive to further negotiations and humanitarian access. However, reports of continued clashes and drone strikes indicate that this provision has not been fully implemented.
- 2.
Disarmament of TPLF forces was a key demand of the federal government. The agreement stipulated a phased disarmament process, with TPLF fighters relinquishing their weapons. The intention was to weaken the TPLF militarily and ensure the federal government's control over security in the Tigray region. The pace and extent of disarmament have been points of contention, with both sides accusing each other of non-compliance.
- 3.
Restoration of federal authority in Tigray aimed to re-establish the Ethiopian government's administration and institutions in the region. This included the deployment of federal police and the resumption of government services. The purpose was to reintegrate Tigray into the Ethiopian state and end the TPLF's de facto control. However, the process has been complicated by political divisions within Tigray and ongoing security concerns.
- 4.
Unimpeded humanitarian access was crucial to address the dire humanitarian situation in Tigray. The agreement mandated that humanitarian organizations be allowed to deliver aid to those in need without obstruction. The aim was to alleviate the suffering of the Tigrayan population, which had been severely affected by the war. Despite the agreement, access has remained limited due to bureaucratic hurdles and security concerns.
- 5.
The agreement established an interim administration in Tigray, led by the federal government. This administration was tasked with governing the region until elections could be held. The purpose was to provide a transitional government that would be acceptable to both sides. However, the interim administration has faced challenges in gaining legitimacy and addressing the region's complex problems.
- 6.
Amnesty for TPLF leaders and fighters was a contentious issue. While the agreement did not explicitly grant a blanket amnesty, it paved the way for a process of reconciliation and accountability. The aim was to encourage TPLF members to lay down their arms and participate in the political process. However, the issue of accountability for war crimes remains a sensitive one.
- 7.
The agreement addressed the issue of disputed territories, particularly the western Tigray region, which is claimed by the Amhara region. The agreement called for a peaceful resolution of the territorial dispute through dialogue and negotiation. However, the issue remains unresolved and continues to be a source of tension.
- 8.
Eritrean forces' withdrawal from Tigray was a key demand of the TPLF and the international community. Eritrean troops had fought alongside Ethiopian forces during the war, and their presence in Tigray was seen as a destabilizing factor. The agreement did not explicitly address the issue of Eritrean withdrawal, but it was understood that their departure was necessary for a lasting peace. However, reports indicate that Eritrean forces have remained in some parts of Tigray.
- 9.
The agreement included provisions for the establishment of a joint monitoring mechanism to oversee the implementation of the agreement. This mechanism was intended to ensure that both sides were adhering to the terms of the agreement. However, the monitoring mechanism has faced challenges in gaining access to all areas of Tigray.
- 10.
The agreement emphasized the importance of transitional justice and reconciliation. This included efforts to address the grievances of victims of the war and promote healing and reconciliation between communities. However, the process of transitional justice is likely to be a long and difficult one.
- 11.
One critical aspect often missed is the economic rehabilitation of Tigray. The war devastated the region's infrastructure and economy. The agreement called for efforts to rebuild infrastructure, restore livelihoods, and promote economic recovery. However, progress has been slow due to funding constraints and security concerns.
- 12.
The agreement stipulated that the TPLF would be reinstated as a legal political party. This was a key demand of the TPLF, as it had been designated a terrorist group during the war. However, the electoral board recently revoked the TPLF's license, meaning it cannot contest national elections, further complicating the situation.
Visual Insights
Timeline of the Tigray Conflict and Peace Agreement
Timeline showing key events leading to and following the Peace Agreement of November 2022.
The Tigray War stemmed from political tensions between the TPLF and the Ethiopian federal government. The peace agreement aimed to end the conflict, but implementation has been challenging.
- 2018Abiy Ahmed becomes Prime Minister of Ethiopia, marginalizing TPLF.
- November 2020Tigray War begins between TPLF and Ethiopian Federal Government.
- 2021Widespread human rights abuses and humanitarian crisis in Tigray.
- November 2, 2022Peace Agreement (Pretoria Agreement) signed between Ethiopian government and TPLF.
- January 2024Reports of renewed tensions and military deployments along Tigray-Eritrea border.
- February 2024Ethiopia accuses Eritrea of atrocities during the Tigray war.
- February 2024Ethiopia demands Eritrea withdraw its troops from Ethiopian territory.
- Early 2024Reports of drone strikes in Tigray, undermining the ceasefire.
- January 2026Renewed tensions and fears of conflict despite peace deal.
Recent Developments
10 developmentsIn January 2024, reports emerged of renewed tensions and military deployments along the Tigray-Eritrea border, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of conflict.
February 2024 saw Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed publicly accuse Eritrea of committing atrocities during the Tigray war, a significant shift from previous denials.
Also in February 2024, Ethiopia demanded that Eritrea withdraw its troops from Ethiopian territory, further escalating tensions between the two countries.
Ethiopian Airlines briefly suspended flights to Tigray in January 2024, citing "unplanned circumstances," fueling fears of renewed conflict.
The African Union has repeatedly called on all parties to exercise restraint and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue, emphasizing the importance of preserving the gains achieved under the Pretoria Agreement.
In early 2024, drone strikes were reported in Tigray, resulting in casualties and further undermining the ceasefire.
The TPLF has faced internal divisions, with rival factions competing for influence, complicating the implementation of the peace agreement.
Humanitarian organizations continue to report significant funding shortfalls for aid efforts in Tigray, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The Ethiopian electoral board recently revoked the TPLF's license, preventing it from participating in upcoming elections, a move that has been criticized by some observers as undermining the peace process.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's renewed focus on Ethiopia's need for sea access has caused anxiety in Eritrea, with some fearing it could ignite new tensions.
This Concept in News
1 topicsFrequently Asked Questions
61. The Pretoria Agreement calls for the 'disarmament of TPLF forces.' What exactly does this entail, and why is it a potential point of failure for the peace process?
The disarmament of TPLF forces, as stipulated in the Pretoria Agreement, involves a phased relinquishing of weapons by TPLF fighters. This is intended to weaken the TPLF militarily and ensure the Ethiopian federal government's control over security in the Tigray region. It's a potential point of failure because the pace and extent of disarmament are contentious, with both sides accusing each other of non-compliance. The TPLF may fear leaving themselves vulnerable to future attacks, while the federal government may distrust the TPLF's commitment to complete disarmament. This mutual distrust can easily derail the peace process.
Exam Tip
Remember that 'disarmament' is rarely total in these agreements. Focus on the 'phased' aspect and the mutual distrust as key challenges for UPSC.
2. The agreement mentions 'restoration of federal authority in Tigray.' What specific actions does this involve, and why might it be difficult to implement fully?
The 'restoration of federal authority' includes the deployment of federal police, resumption of government services, and reintegration of Tigray into the Ethiopian state. It aims to end the TPLF's de facto control. Implementation is difficult due to political divisions within Tigray, ongoing security concerns, and the potential for resistance from elements within the TPLF who oppose federal control. The legitimacy of the interim administration is also a factor.
Exam Tip
For Mains, contrast the *stated* goals of 'restoration' with the *practical* challenges on the ground. Mentioning 'political divisions within Tigray' will show deeper understanding.
3. The Peace Agreement emphasizes 'unimpeded humanitarian access.' Has this been fully achieved in practice? What are the main obstacles?
Despite the agreement, unimpeded humanitarian access has not been fully achieved. Obstacles include bureaucratic hurdles imposed by both the federal government and regional authorities, security concerns due to continued clashes in some areas, and logistical challenges in reaching remote communities. There have also been allegations of aid diversion and politicization of aid distribution.
Exam Tip
In an MCQ, be wary of options suggesting complete success in humanitarian access. The reality is far more complex. Focus on 'bureaucratic hurdles' and 'security concerns' as keywords.
4. What is the significance of the fact that the Peace Agreement of November 2022 is 'primarily a political agreement, not enshrined in Ethiopian law'?
Because the agreement is primarily political, it lacks the legal force of a formal treaty or constitutional amendment. This means its implementation relies heavily on the political will of the parties involved. It's more susceptible to being undermined by shifts in political dynamics or changes in government. While it references international humanitarian law, the absence of a strong legal framework within Ethiopia makes enforcement more challenging.
Exam Tip
For Mains, use this point to argue that the agreement's long-term success hinges on it eventually being formalized within the Ethiopian legal system.
5. How does the unresolved issue of 'disputed territories, particularly the western Tigray region,' undermine the Peace Agreement, and what are the potential scenarios for its resolution?
The dispute over western Tigray, claimed by the Amhara region, undermines the Peace Agreement because it creates a flashpoint for renewed conflict. Amhara militias and security forces control the area, displacing Tigrayans. Potential scenarios include: 1) Negotiation and compromise, potentially involving border adjustments; 2) A referendum to allow residents to decide their allegiance; 3) Continued stalemate and potential violence, jeopardizing the entire peace process. The involvement of regional actors and ethnic tensions complicates the issue.
Exam Tip
Remember that territorial disputes are often the most intractable part of peace agreements. For the exam, focus on the *potential scenarios* and their implications for regional stability.
6. Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed publicly accused Eritrea of committing atrocities during the Tigray war in February 2024. Why is this significant, and what impact could it have on the Peace Agreement?
Abiy Ahmed's accusation against Eritrea is significant because it marks a major shift from previous denials and tacit acceptance of Eritrea's role in the conflict. This could: 1) Further strain relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, potentially leading to renewed border tensions; 2) Bolster the TPLF's narrative of Eritrean aggression, strengthening their position; 3) Increase international pressure on Eritrea to address human rights concerns. The accusation could destabilize the already fragile peace process and potentially lead to a resurgence of conflict.
Exam Tip
For current affairs questions, focus on *shifts* in established positions. Abiy's accusation is a key example of a shift that could have significant geopolitical consequences.
Source Topic
Tigrayans in Ethiopia live in fear of renewed conflict.
International RelationsUPSC Relevance
The Peace Agreement of November 2022 is relevant for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 2 (International Relations) and GS Paper 3 (Security). Questions may focus on the causes and consequences of the Tigray conflict, the role of the African Union in conflict resolution, and the challenges of implementing peace agreements. Understanding the geopolitical dynamics of the Horn of Africa and the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea is crucial.
In Mains, expect analytical questions on the effectiveness of peace agreements in addressing complex conflicts. For Prelims, focus on key dates, actors, and provisions of the agreement. Recent developments, such as renewed tensions and accusations of atrocities, are particularly important.