A deeply troubling incident unfolded in the western region of Oromia, Ethiopia, involving Dambi Dolo University. Multiple reports emerged concerning the abduction of a significant number of students, primarily of Amhara ethnicity, triggering widespread concern, public outcry, and scrutiny of the Ethiopian government's response.
The case of Birtukan Temesgen, an Amhara Ethiopian woman who experienced ethnic-based sexual violence, has recently garnered significant media attention, highlighting the complex interplay of ethnic conflict, sexual violence, and media narratives in Ethiopia. Her story, particularly her recent appearance on the Ethiopian Broadcasting Service (EBS) and the subsequent repercussions, has ignited public discourse and drawn scrutiny towards the Ethiopian government's response to such incidents and the broader issues of ethnic tensions and violence within the nation. This research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Birtukan Temesgen's story, the events surrounding her EBS appearance, the reactions from various stakeholders, and the wider context of ethnic and sexual violence in Ethiopia.