Ethiopia’s peace process shows signs of promise

Significance

The announcement came amid unconfirmed reports that the federal government and Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) have agreed to meet for peace talks in Arusha, Tanzania.

Impacts

• As Demeke is an Amhara, his role could ease Amharas' fears that their interests, particularly over contested lands, will be ignored.
• Progress in peace efforts could improve relations between Ethiopia and Western donors, potentially allowing much-needed aid to resume.
• Facing pressure, Ethiopia is softening its position on UN human rights investigations and may allow some limited access.