EHRC–CSO Coordination Platform

Strengthening partnership and collaboration between the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and Civil Society Organizations

About the Platform

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), an independent national human rights institution, established the EHRC–CSO Coordination Platform as a formal mechanism for collaboration.

This aligns with the Paris Principles, which position NHRIs as “bridge builders” that should work closely with civil society to monitor, report on, and follow up on human rights issues.

Core Objectives

Work towards an evidence-based and shared understanding of the human rights situation in the country.
Develop and strengthen linkages and working relationships to effectively promote and protect human rights.
Facilitate mutual learning to strengthen the respective institutional and technical capacity of EHRC and CSOs.
Work jointly to strengthen and widen the civic space for the protection of human rights defenders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the fundamental purpose of this platform?

The Paris Principles and global NHRI standards emphasize that National Human Rights Institutions should work closely with civil society to monitor, report on, and follow up human rights issues, positioning NHRIs as ‘bridge builders.’ In line with this, the EHRC established the EHRC–CSO Coordination Platform as a formal mechanism for collaboration.

Which organizations are eligible to be members of the platform?

Membership of the Coordination Platform is open to CSOs that are working on human rights directly or development organizations that explicitly uphold human rights values and principles; with the assumption that all members are expected to contribute to the objective of the Platform and/or their thematic sub-groups. CSOs who participated in the annual workshops from August 2020 to December 2023 are assumed to be members of the Coordination Platform without application, unless they expressly cancel their membership.

How is confidentiality maintained during meetings?

With the view to encourage honest and transparent conversation, all meetings shall be conducted under the Chatham House rules which require that no information shared can be directly quoted or attributed in media or any other external communication. Meeting minutes will record key decisions but omit sensitive content.

What is the long-term vision for the platform’s sustainability?

Moving beyond short-term project funding, it establishes a multi-year vision (2025-2030) that ensures continuity, independence, and institutional growth for the platform and its members. The sustainability of the EHRC-CSOs Coordination Platform depends on strategic partnerships, proactive donor relations, and national ownership.

Need more help or want to partner?

Reach out to the EHRC coordination team — we’ll be glad to hear from you.

Contact via Email +251 95 571 9240