Ethiopia Presents Human Rights Report at the 47th Universal Periodic Review Session in Geneva
Ethiopia presented its national report during the 47th Session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on Tuesday (November 12), at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. This marks Ethiopia’s fourth cycle of UPR participation, following its previous submission in 2019.
The Ethiopian delegation was led by Belayhun Yirga, State Minister of Justice. Other key members included Dereje Duguma, the State Minister of Health, and Teyiba Hassan, Director General of the Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), along with officials from multiple ministries.
The session commenced with remarks from Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, who reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the UPR as a vital tool for enhancing governance and promoting human rights.
State Minister Belayhun Yirga presented Ethiopia’s National Report, detailing the country’s human rights progress over recent years, particularly in implementing recommendations from the previous UPR cycle. He emphasized Ethiopia’s efforts to improve human rights, promote accountability, and address socio-economic and environmental challenges, aligning with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as outlined in the country’s Voluntary National Review reports submitted in 2017 and 2022.
Regarding the implementation of UPR recommendations, the state minister noted the establishment of a formal National Monitoring, Reporting, and Follow-up Mechanism, which integrates accepted UPR recommendations into the National Human Rights Action Plans (NHRAP). Additionally, a national human rights data collection mechanism has been created in collaboration with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
The state minister highlighted significant government initiatives to strengthen National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) and the judiciary, including the re-establishment of the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), the reinforcement of judicial independence, the revision of electoral laws, and the simplification of Civil Society Organizations’ registration processes. He also mentioned the introduction of a new Media Law and the adoption of the National Legal Aid Strategy in 2023.
Regarding Transitional Justice and National Dialogue, the state minister highlighted the adoption of a victim-centered Transitional Justice Policy in April 2024 and the establishment of an independent National Dialogue Commission in 2021. He also referenced the Pretoria Peace Agreement, signed with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in November 2022, as a step toward achieving lasting peace. The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
In terms of socio-economic rights, the state minister highlighted the government’s commitment to civil, political, and socio-economic rights, particularly noting the milestone achievement of self-sufficiency in wheat production for the first time in 2023. The state minister further elaborated on the Green Legacy Initiative, launched in 2019, which has mobilized over 21 million volunteers to plant more than 25 billion seedlings.
He also outlined measures to prevent human trafficking and migrant smuggling, acknowledging the challenges faced in managing migration.
Delegation members provided in-depth presentations on health, education, economic and social rights, and addressing issues related to gender-based violence and internally displaced persons. Throughout the session, the delegation engaged in vibrant and interactive discussions with member states, receiving feedback and recommendations from 117 countries.
In closing remarks, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew expressed gratitude to the Human Rights Council and participating states for their constructive contributions. He assured the Council of Ethiopia’s commitment to uphold its international human rights obligations and integrate these norms into national policies, while also expressing appreciation for the support received for Ethiopia’s elections to the Human Rights Council for the upcoming term 2025-27.
The UPR process serves as a key mechanism for countries to voluntarily undergo periodic reviews of their human rights performance, receiving feedback and recommendations from fellow UN member states.
Ethiopia participates in the 352nd Governing Body Session of the ILO
An Ethiopian delegation led by H.E. Daniel Teressa, State Minister of Labour Affairs, participated in the International Labour Organization (ILO) Governing Body meeting which was held from October 28 to November 7, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland.
In this session, Ethiopia participated in key discussions and delivered statements on behalf of the Africa Group that reflected the collective positions of the region. The statements made by the state minister aligned with Ethiopia’s national priorities, particularly its commitment to advancing labour rights, fostering social justice, and improving working conditions.
Throughout the session, Ethiopia actively engaged in discussions and contributed positively to the outcomes, prompting final decisions that shape labour standards and policies both globally and within the African continent.
In its collaboration with the ILO, Ethiopia remains dedicated to promoting social dialogue in the workplace and safeguarding workers’ rights. This partnership highlights Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing and promoting fair and inclusive labour practices. The Ethiopian government has introduced several initiatives aimed at enhancing livelihoods, including job creation focused on youth employment, expanding social insurance coverage, and revising national occupational safety and health directives. These measures are designed to create a safer, more equitable, and resilient labour market in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia’s role in representing the Africa Group during the 352nd session stems from its election in June 2024 as a Deputy Member of the ILO Governing Body for the 2024–2027 term. Since joining ILO in 1923, Ethiopia has actively supported the ILO’s initiatives and has served multiple terms as a member of the Governing Body.
It is noteworthy that Ethiopia’s tripartite partners hosted the 2023 Centenary Celebration and National Labour Conference in December 2023 in Addis Ababa. This event underscored Ethiopia’s commitment to tripartism and social dialogue, aimed at ensuring decent work and social justice.
Ethiopian House of Federation Speaker Urges MPs in Geneva to Strengthen Laws for Safe Technology Use
The 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), convened in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 13 to 17, brought together over 1,500 Members of Parliament and experts from around the world under the theme “Harnessing science, technology, and innovation for a more peaceful and sustainable future.” The theme of the assembly was deemed timely and relevant as nations grapple with the complexities of technological progress.
In his address to the Assembly, Agegnehu Teshager, Speaker of the House of Federation of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, underscored the urgent need for effective governance and ethical frameworks in the rapidly evolving landscape of science and technology.
The urgency of technological governance was central to Agegnehu’s address in light of the “sweeping revolution in science and technology” that is reshaping societies worldwide. He highlighted how advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), are outpacing existing regulations, creating a pressing need for meaningful discussions among parliamentarians.
Speaker Agegnehu emphasized the responsibility of parliaments to establish legal and regulatory frameworks that govern new innovations. He pointed out that effective governance is essential for maximizing the benefits of technology while minimizing potential risks. In this regard, he cited the IPU Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology as a vital step towards ensuring that technological advancements contribute positively to socio-economic development.
The Speaker outlined Ethiopia’s ambitious initiatives aimed at leveraging science and technology for social and economic development. He noted the importance of the “Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy for Inclusive Prosperity” as a comprehensive policy designed to harness technology to drive economic growth and enhance public services. This strategy aligns with Ethiopia’s broader Home-Grown Economic Reform Agenda, emphasizing the integration of digitalization into sustainable development.
The speaker informed the Assembly that the adoption of a national Artificial Intelligence policy framework in Ethiopia is marking a pivotal step towards utilizing AI for socio-economic progress. However, he also acknowledged the challenges posed by inadequate digital infrastructure and the need for capacity building to support these initiatives.
He urged parliamentarians to leverage their legislative powers to ensure the safe use of technologies, particularly in areas such as data protection and cybersecurity. He advocated for the establishment of dedicated sub-committees within parliaments to focus on these critical issues, fostering cooperation and experience sharing among legislators.
He further reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting the IPU’s efforts in advancing the use of science and technology to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030.
His address served as a powerful reminder of the role that parliamentarians play in shaping the future of their nations through effective governance and collaboration in the face of rapid technological change.
Ethiopian Delegation Participates in the 68th IAEA General Conference: A Commitment to Nuclear Science Development
The Ethiopian delegation, led by Belete Molla, Minister of Innovation and Technology, actively participated in the 68th Regular Session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference, held last week (September 16-20) in Vienna, Austria.
In his address, the Minister underscored Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to the peaceful application of nuclear science and technology, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in harnessing nuclear advancements for development.
The Minister congratulated Ham Sangwook on his election as President of the conference and expressed gratitude to Vilawan Mangklatanakul for her effective leadership during the previous session.
He acknowledged IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi for his impactful initiatives, which have greatly benefitted Ethiopia. Programs such as “Rays of Hope,” “ZOODIAC,” “NUTEC,” and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship have played a vital role in enhancing Ethiopia’s infrastructure and human resource development. The Minister also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming “Atom 4 Food” initiative, aimed at improving food security and addressing hunger, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to its successful implementation.
The Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s growing involvement in nuclear science and technology across various sectors, particularly its exploration of nuclear power for electricity generation. He noted the establishment of the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST), which is designed to sustainably manage the nuclear sector. He emphasized the IAEA’s essential role in strengthening Ethiopia’s capabilities in this field and reiterated the country’s intention to enhance technical cooperation with the IAEA to fulfill the objectives of its National Nuclear Program.
Ethiopia has also signed the 5th Country Program Framework (CPF) for Technical Cooperation with the IAEA, which will guide their collaboration from 2024 to 2028. This framework is crucial for continued partnerships in key sectors such as agriculture, health, industry, energy, and human capital development.
The Minister also highlighted the recent imPACT Review, which has been instrumental in shaping Ethiopia’s National Cancer Control Plan, and announced plans to expand radiotherapy centers in collaboration with the IAEA to address the rising cancer burden in the country.
In a separate session during the conference, Ethiopia assumed the chairmanship of the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development, and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA) for the 2024-25 period.
The delegation, including members of Ethiopia’s Permanent Mission, held bilateral discussions with Rafael Mariano Grossi, IAEA Director General, agreeing to work closely to further strengthen their collaboration. The Minister commended the Director-General for his commitment to supporting Ethiopia and noted the country’s population of more than 120 million, requesting the opening of a regional office in Addis Ababa.
Ethiopia’s Election to the Human Rights Council: A Commitment to Global Cooperation and National Interests
On Wednesday (October 9), Ethiopia was elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) for the 2025-2027 term during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This important milestone reflects Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, human rights, and global collaboration.
Ethiopia’s candidacy for the HRC was endorsed by the African Union, emphasizing its ongoing dedication to promoting and safeguarding human rights at both regional and global levels. Serving on the HRC provides Ethiopia with a significant platform to engage in critical discussions and decision-making regarding human rights issues, enhancing its diplomatic influence while allowing it to effectively advocate for its national priorities.
In its campaign pledges and commitments, Ethiopia advocated for promoting human rights both nationally and internationally. Ethiopia’s approach to its UNHRC membership will be anchored in constructive partnerships that foster the realization of human rights for all. The country has outlined several key initiatives it intends to peruse during its term, focusing on the protection and fulfilment of economic, civil, cultural, political, and social rights, as well as peace, tolerance, and respect for cultural diversity.
It is expected that Ethiopia’s participation in the HRC will facilitate the development of stronger partnerships with other member states, especially those from the Global South. These alliances are essential for advancing Ethiopia’s objectives within the international community, including sustainable development, climate resilience, and inclusive growth. Through its HRC membership, Ethiopia can advocate for policies that address the root causes of human rights violations, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of access to basic services.
Furthermore, it is hoped that Ethiopia’s engagement in the HRC will contribute to the Council’s overall effectiveness. By providing constructive input and fostering dialogue among diverse member states, Ethiopia would help ensure that the HRC remains a viable platform for addressing global human rights challenges.
Ethiopia’s previous terms on the HRC from 2013 to 2015 and 2016 to 2018 were characterized by significant contributions to the interests of the African continent and the Global South. As Vice President of the Council, Ethiopia was entrusted with responsibilities that ensured balanced and inclusive discussions. Furthermore, as the Coordinator for the African Group, Ethiopia amplified the voices of African nations, ensuring that their priorities were reflected in HRC deliberations.
With a proven track record of significant contributions during its previous terms, Ethiopia is well-positioned to continue its leadership role within the HRC for the 2025-2027 term. Its participation will not only enhance the Council’s work but also provide a crucial platform to advance its national interests and promote a more equitable global human rights system.
Through active engagement in multilateral diplomacy, Ethiopia aims to shape the future of global human rights governance.
The Permanent Representative of Ethiopia addresses the 34th International Conference of the ICRC and IFRC
The Ethiopian delegation composed of the Permanent Mission of Ethiopia in Geneva and the Ethiopian Red Cross Society actively participated at the 34th International Conference of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), which took place from October 28-31, 2024, in Geneva Switzerland.
In his address, H.E. Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, the Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the UN emphasized Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to the principles of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). He called for renewal of shared commitments to honour obligations under IHL in defence of victims of current armed conflicts to the benefit of future generations.
In this connection, Ambassador Tsegab discussed the implementation of Ethiopia’s Transitional Justice Policy (TJP), aimed at promoting comprehensive justice through truth-seeking, reconciliation, and institutional reform. He also noted the establishment of an inclusive and independent National Dialogue Commission to address historical injustices and foster constructive dialogue within the community.
During the course of the conference, Ethiopia actively engaged in the drafting committee of the five resolutions that were adopted by consensus. Approved resolutions will serve to promote respect for international humanitarian law, strengthen local communities’ roles in humanitarian action, and improve natural disaster management, coordination and anticipation.
The Conference came to an end following four days of intense discussion between representatives of the 196 States Parties to the Geneva Conventions and of the components of the Movement: the 191 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
This year’s conference is particularly notable as it coincides with the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, underscoring the uncertainty in global affairs.
Ethiopia Participates in the 75th Session of the UNHCR Executive Committee in Geneva
An Ethiopian delegation composed of the Ethiopian Mission in Geneva and experts from Refugees and Returnees Service participated at the 75th session of the UNHCR Executive Committee meeting held from October 14-18.
During the General Debate, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, as the head of the delegation, presented Ethiopia’s national statement. In his remarks, he reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to protecting individuals seeking international protections. He highlighted that refugees in Ethiopia have access to essential services, including education and healthcare, under the national system.
Additionally, he emphasized their rights to work and freedom of movement. He also outlined Ethiopia’s ambitious commitments made during the Global Refugee Forum 2023, focusing on enhancing the self-reliance of refugees.
Ambassador Tsegab pointed out that climate change presents significant challenges for countries like Ethiopia, which hosts a large refugee population. He described Ethiopia’s proactive measures, including the planting of millions of multi-purpose seedlings in refugee camps and surrounding areas to restore degraded lands. Furthermore, he discussed efforts to eliminate statelessness by incorporating refugees into Civil Registration and Vital Statistics Systems (CRVS) and the initiation of issuing digital IDs to refugees to improve their social protection and access to financial services.
In addition to the General Debate, Ethiopia contributed statements on two agenda items: International Protection and the Programme Budget for 2025. The remarks underscored Ethiopia’s achievements in refugee education, health, job creation, and livelihoods. The Ethiopian delegation emphasized the need for increased investment in livelihood activities such as agriculture, livestock, vocational skills training, and microenterprise development to bolster the self-reliance of both refugees and host communities. A call was made for a sustainable approach to enhance coexistence between these groups and reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to implementing sustainable programs in collaboration with UNHCR and other partners.
The Ethiopian delegation also addressed the issue of underfunding affecting Ethiopia’s refugee response plan, which compromises the quality of protection provided to refugees. Ethiopia urged donors to offer timely financial assistance to save lives and ensure access to essential services and requested that the proposed budget for 2025 prioritize solutions for refugees in line with Ethiopia’s commitments.
During the session, Ambassador Tsegab was elected as the Second Vice Chairperson of the Executive Committee Bureau of the UNHCR. The Bureau consists of four office holders: a chairperson, two vice chairpersons, and a rapporteur, representing the four United Nations regional groups. Members of the Bureau serve a three-year term, with the vice chairpersons assuming the chairperson role in their final year.
The Executive Committee of the High Commissioner’s Programme (ExCom) convenes annually in Geneva to review and approve the Agency’s programs and budget, provide advice on international protection, and discuss various issues with UNHCR and its intergovernmental and non-governmental partners. During the session, the Ethiopian delegation included representatives from the Ethiopian Mission in Geneva and experts from the Refugees and Returnees Service.
Ethiopia Chairs UNDRR Support Group Meeting in Geneva: Advocating for Enhanced Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies
On Monday (September 16), Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew chaired the UNDRR Support Group meeting in Geneva, stressing the urgent need for stronger global disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies. The meeting brought together representatives from UNDRR and member states to discuss key initiatives to enhance resilience against disasters.
Ambassador Tsegab outlined Ethiopia’s three main priorities during its chairmanship of the UNDRR Support Group. The first priority was accelerating the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and its Midterm Review recommendations. The second priority cantered on improving access to early warning systems, advocating for increased support for the Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative. Lastly, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of integrating DRR into local government planning and empowering communities to take active roles in disaster prevention and response.
Kamal Kishore, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG), reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting countries in their DRR efforts. Presentations covered preparations for the 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, set for June 2025 in Switzerland, as well as the 2024 DRR regional platforms in the Philippines, Namibia, and Montenegro. The meeting also discussed the upcoming International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) and World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024, encouraging broader participation in awareness-raising efforts.
Ethiopia’s Permanent Mission will chair the UNDRR Support Group from September 2024 to August 2025, marking Ethiopia as the first African country to hold this leadership position since the group’s founding in 2002. This reflects Ethiopia’s strong commitment to advancing disaster risk management and promoting international cooperation.
The UNDRR remains one of the foremost multilateral partners in global DRR efforts, alongside organizations like the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR), the Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), and the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems Initiative (CREWS).
The UNDRR Support Group Meeting in Geneva is crucial for driving global DRR efforts, promoting the implementation of the Sendai Framework, and supporting initiatives such as EW4All to ensure better preparedness at the community level. Integrating DRR into local governance and empowering communities continue to be central goals, as the group facilitates collaboration among member states, sharing of best practices, and resource mobilization for disaster prevention and resilience-building.
Ethiopia Assumes Chairmanship of AFRA: A Commitment to Nuclear Science Advancement in Africa
Ethiopia has officially assumed the chairmanship of the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development, and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA) from Algeria during the 35th Meeting of AFRA representatives held on Thursday (September 19) on the sidelines of the 68th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Austria.
In his acceptance speech, Ethiopia’s Minister of Innovation and Technology, Belete Molla, expressed humility and responsibility as Ethiopia took on this leadership role. He extended appreciation to African nations for their trust and to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi for his continued support of AFRA. The Minister also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Chair, Commissioner Abdelhamid Melah, and emphasized the importance of continuity in advancing nuclear science in Africa.
Minister Belete highlighted the transformative potential of nuclear science and technology, noting Ethiopia’s successful use of nuclear applications in health and agriculture. He expressed Ethiopia’s ambition to expand these efforts into nuclear power generation to address Africa’s energy challenges and emphasized nuclear technology’s potential to improve resource management and promote sustainable development across the continent.
The Minister called for united efforts to achieve a prosperous Africa through partnerships, capacity building, and enhanced access to nuclear technology. He pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessors by working closely with AFRA member states, the IAEA, and other stakeholders to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Ethiopia’s one-year term as AFRA chair will focus on innovation, capacity building, and regional collaboration to advance nuclear science and technology across Africa. This leadership aligns with Ethiopia’s broader goals to utilize nuclear technology for peaceful applications in healthcare, agriculture, mining, environmental protection, energy, and industry.
AFRA, established in 2006, is an intergovernmental agreement among African nations aimed at enhancing the contributions of nuclear science and technology to socioeconomic development across the continent.
The Permanent Mission organizes a public consultation during the 54th Human Rights Council Session in Geneva,
During the 54th Session of the Human Rights Council, the Permanent Mission of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Geneva organized a side event on ‘Public Consultations on Options for, and the Process of Designing a Transitional Justice Policy for Ethiopia’ – on the 20th of September 2023 at the United Nations HQ in Geneva. The purpose of the event was to update the community of states, CSOs, and other interested stakeholders in Geneva regarding Ethiopia’s current initiatives on transitional justice and next step measures in finalizing the policy design process.
The side event was formally opened by H.E. Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, the Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the UN in Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland. The session was moderated by H.E. Ambassador Minelik Alemu Getahun, Special Policy Advisor of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia.
H.E. Ambassador Tsegab in his opening remarks outlined the measures the Government of Ethiopia has taken to consolidate peace in the country following the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement on 2nd November 2022. He deplored that the International Commission of Human Rights Experts on Ethiopia—ICHREE has wrongly portrayed the content and process of the nationwide consultations on the options for the transitional justice process and accused Ethiopia of social issues that have nothing to do with the conflict. He outlined that Ethiopia has high hopes for the upcoming transitional justice policy and its implementation.
On his part, H.E. Ambassador Minelik Alemu spoke that the transitional justice policy is expected to address Ethiopia’s long-term needs for sustainable peace, democracy, justice, and accountability. He stressed the importance of involving and guaranteeing justice for victims, ensuring accountability for violations of international law in the fields of human rights, humanitarian law, refugee law, and engaging in truth-telling, healing, and reconciliation within a broader framework of transitional justice.
Mr. Yesuf Jemaw, Director of International Cooperation on Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Justice of Ethiopia gave a detailed account of the background and context of the national need for initiating a transitional justice and the establishment of an independent working group of experts which is mandated to spearhead the study, national consultations, and policy design process on transitional justice.
Finally, Dr. Tadesse Kassa Woldetsadik, Chair of the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts, presented on the extensive preparatory works undertaken by the team in the run up to the nationwide consultations, on substantive contents of transitional justice policy options document, and principles which the working group has implemented during the consultations to ensure compliance with international standards – including on victim participation and gender sensitivity approaches. Dr. Tadesse also explained on the high turnout of the public in the process of the national consultations – which proves the public’s trust and aspiration. He also extended the Working Group’s profound gratitude and appreciation for the collaborations and assistance offered by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the OHCHR Eastern Africa Office, the GIZ, USAID, and the UN family offices in Ethiopia.
H.E. Ambassador Minelik Alemu moderated the question-and-answer session, and concluded by expressing his hope that the event has demonstrated Ethiopia’s seriousness in ensuring accountability, strengthening the domestic justice system, and the sustainable way forward by building robust national accountability mechanisms. He thanked the audience for the exceptionally high turnout for the event in which ambassadors, participants representing Member States and NGOs took part.
