Aron

MEMORANDUM *

Rahel Aron’s contention that she fears persecution if she is forced to return to Ethiopia is supported by compelling evidence. Aron presented facts sufficient to meet both the subjective and objective prongs of the “well-founded fear” standard for asylum eligibility. See Fisher v. INS, 79 F.3d 955, 960 (9th Cir.1996).

Aron testified that she subjectively fears persecution based on her political activism as a member of the All-Amhara People’s Organization (“AAPO”), and that testimony was found to be credible. As for the objective reasonableness of her fear, un-contradicted evidence that Aron’s siblings and friend were persecuted in Ethiopia while Aron was in the United States compels the conclusion that Aron’s fear of future persecution is well-founded.

Aron’s brother, sister, and friend suffered severe persecution-including beatings, lengthy incarcerations and rape-as a result of their activities in the AAPO, which were similar in nature to Aron’s. The reports of their persecution are consistent with State Department country reports, which acknowledge the possibility of prolonged detainment and harsh treatment for members of opposition political parties in…