U.S. Department of State 2001 Trafficking in Persons Report - Ethiopia

Ethiopia (Tier 2)

Ethiopia is a country of origin for internationally trafficked women. Ethiopian women voluntarily travel to Middle Eastern countries, primarily Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates, to work as domestics; some of these women subsequently report abuse that could be categorized as trafficking. There is also evidence of trafficking in persons within Ethiopia. The abduction of women and girls as a form of marriage is practiced in certain regions.

The Government of Ethiopia does not yet fully meet the minimum standards; however, the Government is making significant efforts to combat trafficking despite severe resource constraints. The Penal Code has sections that criminalize trafficking, enslavement, and abusing the human rights and integrity of an Ethiopian sent abroad. The penalties for trafficking are roughly commensurate with those for rape or sexual assault. The Government does not have the resources to actively investigate and prosecute traffickers and there have been no reported prosecutions of traffickers. The Federal Police's Women's Affairs Bureau in collaboration with the media created a continuous public awareness program on the dangers of migrating to Middle Eastern countries. In March 2000, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs opened a consulate in Beirut to assist women in abusive employment situations. The Government is unable to provide direct assistance to victims, and there is only one Ethiopian NGO that could provide such assistance.

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