The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension for the Ethiopia Temporary Protected Status (TPS), citing ongoing tensions in the region that have made it unsafe for Ethiopians to return home.
In a DHS news release, it was stated that new guidance will be provided under the Federal Register Notice for first-time applicants or current beneficiaries of TPS under Ethiopia’s extension and redesignation. This guidance outlines eligibility criteria, timelines, and procedures necessary for current beneficiaries to re-register and renew Employment Authorization Documents. A similar process will be followed by new applicants.
"Temporary Protected Status provides individuals already present in the United States with protection from removal when conditions in their home country prevent their safe return," said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. "That is the situation facing Ethiopians who arrived here on or before April 11 of this year. We are granting them protection through this temporary form of humanitarian relief that the law provides."
Alejandro N. Mayorkas
| DHS
According to the same news release, violence due to armed conflict has extended to many parts of Ethiopia. Many civilians are at risk of indiscriminate attacks and disease outbreaks, while droughts and floods have left millions susceptible to human rights abuses. The litany of ongoing crises underscores an urgent need to address humanitarian issues that have persisted over several years.
President Joe Biden expressed his concern over these issues, stating: "I am deeply concerned by the escalating violence and the hardening of regional and ethnic divisions in multiple parts of Ethiopia." He made these remarks when the crises began in 2021, adding: "The large-scale human rights abuses taking place in Tigray, including widespread sexual violence, are unacceptable and must end. Families of every background and ethnic heritage deserve to live in peace and security in their country. Political wounds cannot be healed through force of arms. Belligerents in the Tigray region should declare and adhere to a ceasefire, and Eritrean and Amhara forces should withdraw."
