We are deeply concerned about renewed fighting in Tigray and neighbouring regions of northern Ethiopia, where communities are still rebuilding their lives after the 2020–2022 conflict. Renewed hostilities threaten an already fragile recovery, with disruption to essential services. The risk of further escalation deepens uncertainty for people who have already endured profound loss.
As a GTY member in Tigray and the Founder of GTY, we issue this joint statement to draw attention to the realities faced by young people directly affected by armed conflict and the importance of listening to their voices.
Yosef, GTY member in Tigray
The situation in Tigray is very difficult right now. We still want peace because we know how much suffering conflict causes.
For the people of Tigray, this feels like a question of survival. Despite wanting peace, I too might have felt compelled to join the fighting if my physical condition had allowed it. But I also know what conflict does to people. We have seen it ourselves.
I am staying away from the fighting now. We are still singing about peace, but the peace we have been asking for has not come.
Yosuke Nagai, Founder of GTY
Yosef’s words ask us to reflect deeply on what it means to address the armed conflict. People who know the devastation of conflict firsthand can sincerely desire peace and still feel compelled to fight for their community’s survival. We must take their concerns seriously and engage with the dilemmas they face within the realities of their lives.
Simply declaring that violence is wrong or calling for an end to conflict can remain far removed from the realities people face. Why do those who know the suffering and sacrifice that conflict brings still feel they have little choice but to consider fighting? To understand the fears and circumstances behind this, we need to listen closely to what they have to say.
The harm caused by armed conflict extends far beyond the fighting itself. It can affect communities across generations as Yosef also mentioned. These lasting consequences make it all the more important to keep exploring new approaches together with those directly affected.
Through GTY, we will continue to engage with Youth Associated with Non-State Armed Groups (YANSAG) and young people affected by armed conflict, listening closely to their voices and taking the realities of their lives seriously. Together, we will develop new approaches to peace grounded in their experiences and responsive to the challenges they face.