Amplifying Women’s Voices in the Ethiopian National Dialogue

On 24 July 2024, FES Ethiopia was honored with a certificate of appreciation for its significant contributions to amplifying women's voices in the national dialogue. This recognition was awarded during activities related to the collection of women's agendas across eight regions and two city administrations in Ethiopia.

The submitted agendas by the Women Voice Coalition for National Dialogue organized by TIMRAN highlight several critical issues faced by women in Ethiopia, each demanding urgent attention. A major concern is the rise in violence and harmful traditional practices against women and children. These practices, coupled with a pervasive lack of justice, create an environment of fear and oppression that hinders women's ability to live safely and with dignity.

Political instability continues to wreak havoc on the lives of women across various parts of the country. The ongoing peace and political instability issues have a disproportionately negative impact on women, exacerbating their already precarious situation. Furthermore, women with disabilities are particularly vulnerable, facing numerous problems due to the insufficient attention and support provided to them. This neglect leaves them exposed to higher risks and fewer opportunities for improvement in their lives.

Women's participation in political processes and decision-making roles remains far below the desired levels, highlighting a significant gap in gender equality. This lack of representation means that women's unique perspectives and needs are often overlooked in policy-making, perpetuating systemic inequalities.

Educational accessibility is another critical issue, particularly in rural parts of the country. The lack of quality education for women in these areas perpetuates cycles of poverty and limits their opportunities for personal and professional growth. In addition, the inaccessibility of infrastructure that considers the overlapping pressures on women is a critical issue. Women often face unique challenges related to mobility and access to essential services, and these challenges are compounded when infrastructure does not adequately address their needs.

Finally, there is a pressing need for constitutional amendments that dignify national unity and peace while explicitly protecting women's rights. Such amendments would provide a stronger legal framework for addressing gender-based disparities and ensuring that women's voices are integral to the nation's development.

FES Ethiopia's and the Women Voice Coalition's efforts in these activities demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the voices and rights of women across the nation, advocating for systemic changes that will lead to a brighter, more inclusive future for all.