Written question asked by Lord Dodds of Duncairn (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 30 June 2026. It was answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Labour) on Tuesday, 23 June 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Ethiopia: Christianity

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Ethiopia on the protection of Orthodox Christian communities and historic places of worship following recent attacks in the Arsi Zone.

Answer: We are concerned by reports of violence affecting communities in Ethiopia's Oromia region, including in Arsi Zone. The UK condemns all violence against civilians, including attacks against places of worship and people because of their religion. We continue to call on all parties to engage in dialogue to address the underlying causes of conflict. Through our Human Rights and Peacebuilding Programme, the UK supports dialogue efforts by local peacemakers, women's groups and the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia alongside Early Warning Human Rights Networks raising security alerts. The UK also supports the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission's capacity to monitor, investigate and act upon violations affecting civilians.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL995
Session: 2026-27
Related items: Ethiopia: Christianity
Friday, 17 July 2026
Written questions
House of Commons; Ethiopia: Humanitarian Aid
Friday, 17 July 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Ethiopia Religious freedom Christianity
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk