IOM Chief Hails Ethiopia for its Support to Refugees

Addis Ababa December 20/2024 (ENA)— The Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Ethiopia, Abibatou Wane, has lauded Ethiopia for its exemplary and unwavering support extended to refugees from various countries.

She highlighted Ethiopia’s remarkable efforts in providing essential services and protection, describing them as unparalleled in the region.

Currently, Ethiopia hosts over 1.1 million refugees and asylum seekers from 26 countries, offering fundamental social services, including shelter, food, healthcare, and education.

The country’s efforts are underpinned by policies and strategies designed to integrate refugees into local communities while promoting sustainability and resilience. 

Ethiopia’s commitment to assisting displaced persons is further reflected in the implementation of a ministerial directive aimed at ensuring refugees and asylum seekers have access to fundamental and community-based services.

The directive emphasizes legal and institutional frameworks to enhance the livelihoods of refugees, returnees, and host communities. Collaborative development projects are also underway, focusing on creating sustainable solutions and improving living standards for all affected populations. 

Ethiopia has established conditions that mitigate the environmental impact of refugee settlements, ensuring harmony between the displaced and the surrounding ecosystems.

IOM’s Abibatou Wane emphasized Ethiopia’s unique position as one of the foremost nations welcoming and hosting large numbers of refugees.

She commended Ethiopia for is providing convenient services by accepting large number of refugees.

Ethiopia’s proactive measures to combat irregular migration were also praised. The government is actively engaging with host nations to safeguard the rights and welfare of Ethiopian migrants abroad while ensuring they have access to fair and dignified employment opportunities.

Other countries have also been taking practical majors following Ethiopia's steps in this regard,  she stated. 

Additionally, the head mentioned about Ethiopia's efforts in  facilitating the voluntary return and reintegration of its citizens caught in vulnerable conditions abroad. 

Through its collaborative partnership with IOM and other stakeholders, Ethiopia continues to demonstrate its commitment to tackling irregular migration, enhancing refugee welfare, and fostering sustainable development. Ethiopia’s exemplary approach serves as an inspiring model for countries worldwide.

In her remarks, Abibatou Wane reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Ethiopia in addressing migration challenges and achieving mutual goals of sustainable solutions for displaced persons and host communities.