Press Release Medical Teams International Mourns the Death of Staff Member in Ethiopia By Medical Teams International May 28, 2024 (Portland, OR) May 28, 2024 – Medical Teams International is deeply saddened to report the loss of a staff member and injuries to other staff members in Ethiopia. This tragedy occurred in the insecure Amhara region of Ethiopia where our convoy team was traveling and was fired upon by armed men on May 24, 2024. We are closely reviewing and addressing the circumstances surrounding this tragic loss and determining next steps as an organization. As we do all within our means to support our affected colleagues, their families, and the Ethiopia team through this difficult time, we ask for prayers for them and respect for the privacy of those affected and their families. At this time, we do not believe this was an intentional, targeted attack on our staff or on the organization. Medical Teams strongly adheres to the humanitarian principle of neutrality, never taking side of any political, religions, racial, or other type of conflicts or controversies, in Ethiopia and in each of the countries where we serve. Yet increasingly, armed actors fail to adhere to International Humanitarian Law, outlined in the Geneva Conventions, which requires them to take steps to ensure protection of humanitarian workers. In 2023, 260 aid workers worldwide were killed, marking a 120% increase over the previous year. This disturbing trend has continued into 2024. Medical Teams began providing life-saving medical services in Ethiopia in April 2021, and is currently serving refugees, internally displaced persons, and conflict-affected communities in five regions of Ethiopia (Amhara, Tigray, Afar, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Somali regions). About Medical Teams International Founded in 1979, Medical Teams International provides life-saving medical care for people in crisis, such as survivors of natural disasters and refugees. We care for the whole person – physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. Daring to love like Jesus, we serve all people – regardless of religion, nationality, sex, or race. Learn more at medicalteams.org and on social media using @medicalteams. # # #