Addis Abeba — Human Rights Watch has accused authorities in contested areas of Western Tigray of enforcing discriminatory measures against ethnic Tigrayan residents, allegations strongly denied by local administrators.

In a report released this week, the New York-based rights group said Tigrayans living in areas including Wolkait and Humera face systematic restrictions on movement, access to identification documents, and basic services. According to the report, residents are required to obtain special permits from local authorities to travel beyond their immediate localities, with approvals reportedly limited to exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies.

HRW further alleged that the denial of identification documents has prevented many from accessing banking services, reclaiming property, or securing formal employment, effectively reducing them to daily laborers. The organization described the measures as part of a broader “discriminatory system” that severely curtails economic opportunities and freedom of movement.

“Ethnic Tigrayans in Western Tigray are facing sweeping and dehumanizing restrictions across nearly every aspect of their lives,” said Laetitia Bader, Deputy Africa Director at HRW, calling on Ethiopian authorities and international partners to address the situation and ensure accountability.

The report, based on interviews with residents and displaced individuals conducted remotely, as well as input from aid workers and diplomats, also revisits earlier claims that hundreds of thousands were forcibly displaced from the area during the northern Ethiopia conflict. HRW estimates that approximately 740,000 people were displaced and warns that ongoing abuses continue to drive further displacement.

The organization urged Ethiopia’s international partners to impose targeted sanctions on officials it holds responsible for alleged violations, including Demeke Zewdu, deputy administrator of the Wolkait-Tsegede-Setit-Humera zone.

However, Colonel Demeke dismissed the allegations as “false” and “biased” in remarks to BBC. He rejected claims that Tigrayans are being discriminated against, insisting that residents have equal access to services and freedom of movement.

“We do not have any system that targets people based on their identity,” he said, adding that no formal complaints have been raised with his administration regarding denial of services or documentation.

Demeke also questioned the credibility of HRW’s findings, suggesting the report relied on politically motivated sources. He maintained that Tigrayan residents in the area are living peacefully and exercising their rights like any other citizens.

The HRW report further noted that Ethiopian authorities had been contacted for comment prior to publication but had not responded.

The disputed areas of Western Tigray, which were administered under the Tigray regional state prior to the two-year northern conflict, are currently under Amhara regional administration following the cessation of hostilities. The territorial status of the area remains a sensitive political issue, with competing claims from both regions.

The contrasting accounts highlight ongoing tensions over governance, human rights, and territorial control in post-conflict northern Ethiopia, as questions persist over the conditions necessary for the safe and voluntary return of displaced populations.

Keyir Times will continue to monitor developments as further responses emerge from federal authorities and international stakeholders.