Ethiopia reaffirms commitment to address all forms SGBV, empower women

Addis Ababa, November 24, 2022 (FBC) – It is important to recognize how far Ethiopia has come in promoting and protecting the rights of women and empowering them during the observance of the International day for the Elimination of Violence against Women which will be marked on November 25.

As a party to a number of international and regional conventions that set goals towards achieving gender equality and eliminating various challenges facing women, Ethiopia has made an important stride in devising and implementing comprehensive policies that promote and protect the rights of women and empower them to higher positions.

The Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is committed to address all forms of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) that has occurred during the recent conflict in the Northern part of country.

In this vain, it has established an Inter-Ministerial Task Force, among others, to investigate and bring perpetrators of serious violations of human rights and humanitarian law, including of SGBV to justice and ensure accountability. A more robust focus on policy revitalization, including the adoption of a national policy to prevent and respond to SGBV is underway based on applicable international law.

Sustainable milestones, such as gender party in the enrollment of children at primary education (SDG-5), ascertaining women’s property rights through the amendment of the civil code and promoting the status of women at a political leadership level have been made possible. Currently, many ministerial portfolios as well as the Federal Supreme Court are occupied by women. Ethiopia is amongst the few countries in the world that has a female Head of State.

The Agreement for Lasting Peace Through a Permanent Session of Hostilities between the Government of Ethiopia and the TPLF will also be of utmost importance in establishing transitional justice system in addressing the specific needs of women and girls.

While observing this important day, we call upon friends and partners of Ethiopia to join hands in encouraging the implementation of the Agreement for Lasting Peace, which would create a better condition for women in the conflict affected areas.