Addis Ababa — The Government of Ethiopia, in cooperation with the European Union and the International Labour Organization, has launched a 6.5 million euro project aimed at promoting safe, orderly, and regular labor migration between regions.
The project, titled “Enhancing Regional Cooperation for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Labor Migration,” aims to support governance systems and protect the rights of Ethiopian workers throughout all stages of migration.
The project brings together the Government of Ethiopia, the European Union, and the International Labour Organization to establish a more effective framework for protecting migrant workers and integrating policies.
The four-year ILO project, funded by the European Union, seeks to improve labor migration management in Ethiopia, where working abroad remains a vital source of livelihood for many citizens and an important component of economic development.
During the launch ceremony, it was stated that labor migration management is inherently complex, involving multiple institutions, policy areas, and cross-border dynamics.
Progress made by Ethiopia in developing policies that protect migrant workers and promote safe migration pathways was acknowledged. However, it was noted that issues such as limited access to safe migration channels, skills mismatches with destination labor markets, and insufficient information and protection services continue to threaten the well-being of migrant workers.
It was emphasized: “Migration challenges cannot be addressed through isolated interventions, but require coordinated, evidence-based, and institutionally-led responses.”
It was explained that the newly launched project aims to address these challenges by adopting a systematic approach to strengthen governance structures and institutional capacities at both the federal and regional levels.
It was added that the project seeks to promote rights-based and gender-responsive labor migration management, while introducing innovative methods to improve existing systems.
The project focuses on enhancing institutional capacities, skills development and recognition, providing accurate information and protection services, fair recruitment practices that activate regulatory frameworks, and promoting transparent employment standards to prevent exploitation.
It was stated: “This four-year initiative is a vital step towards building a sustainable labor migration framework that meets Ethiopia’s international commitments.”
It was said that the government has intensified its focus on external employment during the reform period.
It was indicated that the project will play a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by migrants, particularly those related to human trafficking.
Appreciation was expressed for the continuous support, emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
It was stated that the project is of paramount importance in promoting safe, orderly, and regular labor migration from the country.
A firm commitment to supporting evidence-based and mutually beneficial labor migration management in Ethiopia was reaffirmed, stating that labor migration, when well-managed, can be a powerful driver of development for migrants, their countries of origin, destination countries, and economies on both sides.
Ethiopia’s immense human capital and great potential were highlighted, noting that approximately two million young Ethiopians enter the labor market annually.
It was noted that significant progress made by the Ethiopian government in promoting labor migration management is recognized, citing ongoing reforms, institutional structures, and policy commitments.
It was stressed that the project builds on what has already been achieved, enhances gains, and supports national priorities with targeted and sustainable interventions.
Drawing on regional experiences, reference was made to a program which confirmed the importance of regional cooperation, inter-ministerial coordination, and engagement with destination countries.
It was explained that this encompasses the entire migration cycle, from skills development and pre-departure preparations to protection abroad and reintegration support.
