Oromia: Advocacy Workshop on Durable Solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) held an advocacy workshop on the findings and recommendations of human rights monitoring regarding the implementation of durable solutions for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the Jimma and East Hararge Zones of Oromia region, as well as Jimma City Administration, on June 18, 2026, in Jimma. The workshop aimed at sharing positive developments and challenges identified through EHRC’s monitoring, assessing the conditions under which the rights of IDPs are respected, and fostering experience sharing.

The workshop convened participants from the House of Peoples’ Representatives, the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission, the Oromia President’s Office, Oromia Busa Gonofa, alongside representatives from zonal and woreda Busa Gonofa offices. Officials from government institutions, humanitarian and development partners, and civil society organizations, as well as Jimma and East Hararghe zone IDPs’ representatives, were also in attendance.

The discussion highlighted positive developments and collaborative efforts undertaken by government institutions, local communities, and partner organizations in providing durable solutions. These positive measures include transitioning IDPs who have resided in Jimma city for many years into normal life by providing residential land plots, housing, and livelihood support. On the other hand, it was emphasized that the ongoing gaps concerning rehabilitation, access to basic services and infrastructure, and social integration must be addressed to ensure the comprehensive completion of the process.

Stakeholders also reaffirmed their commitment to working collaboratively to deliver durable solutions and safeguard the rights of IDPs in the Jimma and East Hararge Zones, ensuring that all efforts are carried out in a voluntary, safe, and dignified manner.

EHRC’s Commissioner for Human Rights Education and Training, Badassa Lamessa, urged that the rights of the IDPs must be protected in accordance with the FDRE Constitution, the Kampala Convention, and other relevant international human rights principles and standards. He added that EHRC will continue its efforts to ensure the provision of durable solutions for IDPs through monitoring the human rights situation of IDPs, the implementation of its recommendations, and collaborating with relevant stakeholders.