OPPORTUNITIES
The adoption of the Growth and Transformation Plan, which set the path for the Ethiopian
renaissance, has created ample opportunities for the promotion and protection of human rights. The
commitment of the government to build a nation, through the participation and free will of the
people, in which democratic rule, good-governance and social justice reign, provides the platform
for the promotion of individual rights and freedoms. The dedication of the people to free
themselves from the bondage of poverty enables the State to remain focused on the advancement of
economic and social rights.
The government has been diligent in engaging in the protection and fulfilment of fundamental
human and democratic rights recognized in the Constitution. The national policies and strategies
address economic, social justice and good governance issues. The three branches of the state work
in tandem in the design and implementation of strategies that reinforce respect and protection of
human rights and enable nations, nationalities and peoples of Ethiopia to be sustainable
beneficiaries. The HPR, for example, established and supervises the main human rights institutions
in the country, including the Ethiopian Human Right Commission and the Institute of Ombudsman.
In June 2013, the Parliament adopted the National Human Right Action Plan. This plan was
prepared by the executive branch and was developed through consultative meetings and workshops
to augment the participation of governmental organizations, civil societies and the public at large.
The implementation of the plan is now well underway. The Plan will enable the nation to conduct
human rights protection and promotion activities in a coordinated and effective manner. In other
words it reviews the human rights situation in the country, identifies potential problems, and sets
feasible solutions. It addresses civil and political, economic, social and cultural rights as well as the
rights of vulnerable groups and the right to clean environment and the right to development.
The government believes that when implemented the plan will ensure the full enjoyment of all the
fundamental freedoms and democratic rights which are guaranteed under the Constitution and the
human right treaties ratified by Ethiopia.
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