The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) hosted the German Parliament (Bundestag) delegation, comprising Markus Koob, Awet Tesfaiesus, and Derya Türk-Nachbaur, along with officials from the German Embassy in Ethiopia, on January 22, 2026, at its head office in Addis Ababa. The visit formed part of the official visit to Ethiopia by H.E. Johann Wadephul, Federal Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany. The meeting focused on the human rights situation in Ethiopia and on strengthening continued collaboration between the Bundestag and EHRC in the promotion and protection of human rights.
EHRC Chief Commissioner Berhanu Adello briefed the delegation on EHRC’s key roles and responsibilities as Ethiopia’s national human rights institution. He underscored EHRC’s institutional independence, noting that it is established as per the Federal Constitution and reports directly to the House of Peoples’ Representatives. He also highlighted the Federal Republic of Germany’s significant support to EHRC’s human rights monitoring, investigation, and advocacy efforts aimed at ensuring the full realization of human rights and promoting a human rights culture in Ethiopia.
Members of the Bundestag delegation raised concerns regarding the human rights situation in Ethiopia, including the media environment and the rights of refugees. The Chief Commissioner highlighted EHRC’s ongoing efforts to monitor and strengthen human rights protection across the country, citing recent initiatives and constructive engagement with regional authorities. He also acknowledged areas requiring further attention and outlined key interventions aimed at promoting improvements in both refugee protection and media freedom.
The Chief Commissioner concluded his remarks by reiterating his appreciation for Germany’s continued support and calling for sustained engagement, with particular emphasis on supporting EHRC’s human rights activities related to Ethiopia’s transitional justice process and the upcoming national election. Dr. Mizanie Abate, Senior Strategic Advisor to the Chief Commissioner, underscored the need for collaborative efforts to ensure access to justice for human rights violations in Ethiopia, including by strengthening the justice sector capacity nationwide.
Mr. Markus Koob, a member of the delegation, commended EHRC’s efforts and contributions towards advancing human rights in Ethiopia and reaffirmed Germany’s continued support through German-funded international organizations.
As part of the same series of high-level diplomatic engagements, the Chief Commissioner also held separate meetings with the Ambassadors of Canada and Sweden to further strengthen EHRC’s established bilateral relations and cooperation with key international partners.