Ethiopia Reaffirms Commitment to Promote Human Rights Rule of Law, National Reconciliation

Addis Ababa, February 25, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Minister of Justice Hanna Arayaselassie, addressed the High-Level Segment of the 58th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, reaffirming Ethiopia’s dedication to human rights, rule of law, and national reconciliation.

Expressing gratitude for Ethiopia’s election to the Human Rights Council, she highlighted the country’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing emerging human rights challenges.

 In line with this commitment, Ethiopia has made significant progress in fulfilling its UDHR 75 pledge by expediting the ratification of human rights treaties, enhancing international cooperation, and implementing key legislative, policy, and institutional reforms.

Additionally, she said comprehensive legal reform initiatives have introduced progressive laws and reinforced independent institutions.

Continuing these efforts, Ethiopia remains fully engaged in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process.

 

The country submitted its 4th Cycle National Report in August 2024 and received 316 recommendations. Emphasizing the importance of this process, Minister Hanna reaffirmed Ethiopia’s dedication to implementing the accepted recommendations.

Building on these advancements, Ethiopia is actively working on a comprehensive Transitional Justice Policy aimed at promoting accountability, truth-seeking, and reconciliation.

Ensuring a participatory, inclusive, and credible approach, the policy is a crucial step toward addressing past injustices.

At the same time, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission initiative continues to foster broad-based discussions to build national consensus.

Alongside these national efforts, Ethiopia’s contributions to regional and international human rights mechanisms, including the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, underscore its commitment to peace and stability.

 

Moreover, the successful implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement further demonstrates Ethiopia’s dedication to lasting peace, human rights, and regional stability. This achievement highlights the government’s determination to address challenges in the Horn of Africa and beyond through peaceful means.

Looking ahead, Ethiopia will focus on strengthening collaboration between national, regional, and UN human rights mechanisms. At the same time, it will continue advocating for the indivisibility of human rights, emphasizing the interdependence of economic, social, and cultural rights as a foundation for the full realization of all rights.

In collaboration with like-minded nations, Ethiopia remains committed to advancing the rights of vulnerable groups including women, children and persons with disabilities.

Concluding her statement, Minister Hanna reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, and human rights advocacy. She also extended her gratitude to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for its continued partnership.