Young people in Tigray are fleeing the region, driven by fear of forced recruitment and deep uncertainty amid rising tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Fears are intensifying over renewed tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, the latter of which has been allied with the Tigray region this time. However, many people contacted by the Addis Ababa–based outlet Ethiopia Insider say that large numbers of young people are arriving in Addis Ababa. A ticket that once cost around 3,000 birr has reportedly risen to 15,000—and in some cases even 30,000 birr, according to Ethiopia Insider. After arriving in Addis Ababa, some of them are attempting to leave the country for Europe or Gulf countries, it was reported.

Source: Ethiopian News February 21, 2026 23:09 UTC