Ethiopian Human Rights Council Calls for End to Tigray Conscription Decree That Includes Death Penalty for Objectors

The Ethiopian Human Rights Council issued an urgent appeal on July 12 demanding an immediate end to forced military conscription in Tigray. AllAfrica reported that the council stated local authorities are conducting roundups that target youth and children under 18 years old.

The Tigray regional council passed a decree on June 24 that mandates compulsory military service and enforces the death penalty for objectors.

The council had been dissolved under the 2022 Pretoria peace deal and was reinstated unilaterally earlier in 2026. The Ethiopian Human Rights Council said the conscription violates the Ethiopian constitution and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It observed that the threat of returning war is causing widespread panic and forcing residents and youth to migrate from the region.

The council called on the federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front to de-escalate tensions and resolve disputes through dialogue. It stated that the federal government must fulfill its constitutional obligation to maintain peace and security in Tigray.

AllAfrica reported that the developments come amid escalating political and military friction between the Tigray People's Liberation Front and the federal government.

International human rights watchdogs and foreign governments have expressed concern over coercive mobilization in the region.