Building Responsible Business in Ethiopia: Voices from Central Region Shape National Action Plan

Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen business accountability and human rights took another step forward:In the national process in Ethiopia towards a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, FES Ethiopia supported the Ministry of Justice by holding a consultative forum in Hosanna from 20–21 October 2025, the forum provided a space for local perspectives to inform the development of the country’s first National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP).

The consultation is part of a nationwide process to create a policy framework ensuring that economic growth is pursued in ways that uphold dignity, fairness, and the rights of all people. Discussions centered on how businesses contribute significantly to development through jobs, services, and investment, while also acknowledging that gaps in regulation, oversight, and community engagement can lead to harmful impacts. Participants highlighted that although many positive practices exist, awareness of rights and responsibilities remains limited. When knowledge is low, violations often go unreported, and opportunities to strengthen accountability are lost.

Participants also underscored that communities often experience the first impacts of investment, whether job creation or land displacement, and therefore must be actively involved in decision-making. A recurring theme in the discussions: awareness is still low. Without greater knowledge of rights and responsibilities, violations go unreported and opportunities for better governance are missed.

Stakeholders called for practical measures, including stronger collaboration between authorities and the private sector, improved monitoring of labour conditions, and clearer mechanisms for addressing grievances. Civic groups emphasized the importance of ensuring marginalized voices are fully represented as the NAP takes shape.

The Hosanna consultation is one of several regional engagements planned across the country to ensure that the future NAP reflects Ethiopia’s diverse realities. By collecting experiences directly from communities, the process aims to build a shared commitment: Businesses must contribute to prosperity without compromising the right to work, to health, and to live with dignity.

Similar regional consultations will continue across the country to ensure that the NAP is inclusive, participatory, and reflective of the voices of all communities.