The The Human Rights Protection of Internally Displaced Persons in Tigrai National Regional State

The human rights protection of the internally displaced persons (IDPs) at all stages of their displacement is vital for their wellbeing. This article examines the efforts of the state in the protection of some rights of the IDPs hosted in Mekelle city, Medroc and Saint-Michael camps. A qualitative research method was employed in which thirty-eight persons from the IDPs and concerned authorities have participated as the primary source of data in addition to the secondary sources. Interview, focus group discussion, and observation were used to collect the primary data. This study reveals that the provision of food and food items is scarce and doesn’t consider the nutritional needs of the vulnerable groups. Disruption of the schedule of water distribution, lack of goods to collect adequate water for their food, poor sanitation and the salty nature of the water are negatively affecting the right to potable and adequate water of the IDPs. Basic shelter and housing in the camps also lack mattress, proper clothing, toilet, and shower. It is not suitable for their privacy and dignity. Health care services have administrative problems where some of the drugs are not available in public pharmacies and are beyond the capacity of the IDPs to buy from outside. The property of the IDPs is subject to illegal appropriation, looting, and burning but there are no restoration and compensation measures for the victims. Generally, the protection of the above-mentioned rights of the IDPs inside the Medroc and Saint-Michael camps has multifaceted violations.