Transitional Justice Policy Launched

Addis Ababa, May 9/2024(ENA) The Transitional Justice Policy that aims to oversee and execute the transitional justice process in a methodical, cohesive, and efficient manner at national level was officially launched today.

The policy was launched in the presence of Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige, Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos, senior government officials and foreign dignitaries at a ceremony held at the Skylight Hotel.

At the ceremony, organizations and individuals, including the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts, were given recognition for their unreserved and tireless efforts to develop the Transitional Justice Policy.

Recall that the Government of Ethiopia initiated a landmark national process to develop a comprehensive transitional justice policy framework anchored on the pillars of justice, accountability, reconciliation and redress in November 2022. 

As part of the process, the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts was established under the Ministry of Justice and carried out nation-wide consultations, developed a transitional justice policy framework, and undertook post-draft policy validation workshops.

Following the historic milestone the Council of Ministers approved recently the draft Transitional Justice Policy. 

In Ethiopia, various attempts have been undertaken to tackle human rights violations, internal strife, unsubstantiated narratives, and disobedience that have transpired and persisted across various periods in the nation’s history. 

Nevertheless, the efforts proved ineffective in achieving a sustainable resolution as they did not adopt an all-encompassing, human rights-centered, and adaptable approach to establishing a comprehensive transitional justice system grounded in truth, reconciliation, forgiveness, and justice, underpinned by a well-defined policy framework.