EU Vows to Cement 50-Year Partnership with Ethiopia on Governance, Democracy

Addis Ababa, March 15, 2026 (ENA)—The European Delegation to Ethiopia emphasized the strength of its long-standing partnership with the country, marking 50 years of cooperation in 2025.

Approached by ENA, Anna Lixi, Head of the Governance and Peace Team, highlighted the breadth of collaboration, spanning government institutions and civil society organizations (CSOs).

“Our partnership with Ethiopia is built on decades of shared commitment,” Lixi said.

According to the head European Union is working with various democratic situations and supporting efforts in Ethiopia.

 

“We work closely with government authorities such as the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the Ministry of Justice, and the Federal Supreme Court, supporting initiatives in criminal justice reform. We also collaborate with the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to strengthen electoral processes ahead of the 7th general election in 2026,” she noted.

Ethiopia is pursuing broad political and institutional reforms aimed at deepening democratic governance, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting inclusive public participation.

These reforms include revising legal frameworks, empowering civil society organizations, and enhancing state institutions’ capacity to deliver services and uphold fundamental rights — all part of a longer-term democratic transition and social cohesion strategy following recent political challenges.

 

As a key partner to Ethiopia, the European Union has supported these reforms.

Lixi noted that the Delegation actively backs government-led initiatives, particularly those of the National Dialogue Commission, ensuring they are transparent and inclusive.

“We finance projects and programs that advance national dialogue and good governance. Our goal is to accompany, contribute to, and support the Ethiopian government’s efforts toward democratic strengthening,” she added.

Between 2023 and 2026, EU interventions have intensified in criminal justice reform, while technical and resource support to NEBE is helping ensure that the upcoming 2026 general election meets international standards.

Parallel to the electoral process, the EU funds the National Dialogue Commission — an initiative considered vital for long-term national stability and reconciliation.

This enduring partnership, spanning over five decades of diplomatic and cooperative ties, has evolved into a comprehensive strategic relationship, underscoring Europe’s commitment to good governance, democratic reforms, and inclusive civic participation in Ethiopia, Lixi emphasized.