Ethiopia Gains Global Recognition for Refugee Hosting Approach

The Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) announced that Ethiopia’s refugee hosting policy is receiving growing international recognition for both its scale and strong focus on inclusion. The country currently hosts more than one million refugees and asylum seekers, ranking second in Africa after Uganda and seventh worldwide. Officials say this achievement reflects Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to protecting people fleeing conflict and persecution.

Ethiopia’s approach is firmly grounded in its adherence to the 1951 Refugee Convention, which shapes its legal and institutional framework for refugee protection. Teyba Hassen, director general of the RRS, emphasised that authorities are prioritising the integration of refugees into host communities with expanded access to education, healthcare, food support, and livelihood opportunities.

Efforts are also underway to strengthen collaboration between refugees and local populations, promoting shared economic participation and development in regions with large numbers of displaced people. The agency noted that Ethiopia has successfully created conditions where refugees can live and work alongside residents, fostering peaceful coexistence.

Some individuals educated in Ethiopia have returned to their home countries and are now actively promoting a positive image of Ethiopia abroad. This inclusive model is being viewed globally as a successful example of refugee integration that benefits both displaced persons and host communities.

International partners have praised Ethiopia’s policy for going beyond basic protection to deliver real economic and social opportunities. The RRS highlighted that this approach not only supports refugees but also contributes to broader regional stability and development.

Businesses operating in refugee-hosting regions are beginning to see new opportunities for partnerships in education, healthcare, and livelihood programmes. The recognition is expected to attract further international support and investment into Ethiopia’s refugee inclusion initiatives.

The policy’s success demonstrates how humanitarian efforts can align with economic development goals, creating shared prosperity for refugees and local populations alike. Officials say continued focus on inclusion will strengthen Ethiopia’s global standing in refugee protection.

Stakeholders in development and humanitarian sectors are closely watching Ethiopia’s model as a potential blueprint for other African nations facing similar challenges. The growing recognition is likely to open new avenues for collaboration with international organisations and donors.

Overall, Ethiopia’s refugee hosting approach is setting a new standard for inclusive policies that deliver both protection and economic benefits. This achievement reinforces the country’s role as a responsible global actor in addressing displacement crises.

Mintesinot Nigussie