UNPO’s Secretary General, Mercè Monje Cano, praised the resilience, courage and unwavering commitment of the Ogaden people to their land, culture and dignity over the past four decades. She emphasized that this anniversary is not only a historical milestone, but also a testament to endurance in the face of decades of political exclusion, militarization, and economic hardship.
In her remarks, Ms. underscored that the Ogaden National Liberation Front’s steadfast embrace of non-violence remains a moral compass and a strategic safeguard. She commended ONLF’s leadership for choosing dialogue and peaceful advocacy despite persistent challenges, describing this path as a leading example of resilience and moral strength.
“Choosing peace in the face of injustice is never simple. It requires courage and patience. Yet it is the path that brings legitimacy, moral strength, and a chance for lasting recognition.”
The Secretary General also highlighted the broader challenges facing the Ogaden community. Externally, their homeland lies at the crossroads of regional and global tensions, where militarization and external pressures affect daily life. Internally, the community continues to face economic hardship, limited access to essential services, and the long-term impacts of displacement. Added to this is the persistent unwillingness of political actors to engage in genuine, peaceful dialogue with community leaders; a reality that continues to hinder pathways to reconciliation and justice. Yet, despite these barriers, the ONLF leadership remains steadfast in their commitment to non-violence. Their choice to pursue peaceful advocacy in the face of exclusion and resistance reflects not only resilience but also a vision of a future built on unity, dignity, and lasting peace.
“The fact that after 41 years you are still here—still raising your voice, still united—is already a victory. Each step you take keeps alive the hope of a peaceful and dignified future.”
UNPO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Ogaden people to navigate geopolitical and social challenges and in pursuing the right to self-determination. Ms. Monje Cano stressed the importance of long-term engagement, intergenerational solidarity, and collective resilience and advocacy, affirming that the Ogaden struggle is part of a broader movement of unrepresented peoples working for justice and dignity worldwide.
Through this commemoration, UNPO honors Ogaden’s history, celebrates their achievements, and underscores hope, resilience, and peaceful advocacy remain essential pillars in the pursuit of recognition and justice.
