"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum, Addis Ababa

The "Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stands as a somber testament to the victims of the brutal Derg regime that ruled the country from 1974 to 1987. Dedicated to preserving the memory of those who suffered and perished during this tumultuous period, the museum is a poignant reminder of the country's painful past.

Located in the heart of the capital, the museum was established in 2010 to honor the lives lost during the "Red Terror" campaign, wherein tens of thousands of Ethiopians were tortured, imprisoned, and killed. The museum's exhibits provide a harrowing look at the human cost of political violence, featuring photographs, artifacts, and personal belongings of the victims.

Visitors to the museum are guided through a series of displays that recount the history of the Derg's rise to power, their oppressive rule, and the resistance movements that opposed them. One of the most moving parts of the exhibit is the collection of personal testimonies from survivors and family members of the deceased, offering a deeply personal perspective on the suffering endured during this dark chapter in Ethiopian history.

The museum also serves an educational purpose, aiming to teach current and future generations about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of human rights and justice. In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum hosts various events and discussions to engage the public in conversations about Ethiopia's history and the ongoing quest for reconciliation and healing.