CFSP Statement
Declaration by the Presidency of the European Union on the situation in Ethiopia

Date of release : 07-06-2005

Policy area : General Affairs and External Relations

The Presidency of the European Union expresses its concern about the events that have taken place over the past two days at universities in Addis Ababa and the accounts of the subsequent arrests of students.

The Presidency appeals to the Government and the security forces to show restraint in their handling of peaceful demonstrations organised by civil society and to respect the international principles of human rights.

While awaiting the final election results, the Presidency calls on all parties to avoid confrontation and to resolve their differences peacefully in accordance with Ethiopian laws and the Ethiopian Constitution. The European Union cannot support any party resorting to violence or actions which are illegal or even unconstitutional.

The European Union reiterates its commitment to play a neutral and impartial role supporting the democratic process in Ethiopia, particularly during the election’s final stages. The EU appeals to all Ethiopian parties to play their part in ensuring that the electoral process is concluded peacefully.