The Center for Human Rights organized a Networking and Experience Sharing Workshop

on “Free Legal Aid Services and Other Human Rights Initiatives” on October 16, 2025, in Addis Ababa.

The workshop brought together representatives from universities, government institutions, and CSOs to share experiences, lessons learned, and strengthen partnerships in advancing free legal aid and human rights initiatives in Ethiopia.

Opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Ezana Amdework, Dean of CSSAH, followed by Dr. Anchinesh Sheferaw, Head of the Center, who presented the Center’s experiences, focusing on opportunities and challenges in advancing multidisciplinary human rights scholarship and community engagement within the framework of institutional autonomy.

Key presentations were delivered by Arba Minch University, reflecting on sustaining impact amid declining aid, while Arsi University and Haramaya University shared their institutional experiences in advancing free legal aid and human rights initiatives. The Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association (EWLA) also provided valuable insights on the Free Legal Aid Services Draft Proclamation.

Participants actively engaged in discussions, approved the Ethiopian Lawyers Association as a new member, and concluded the workshop with a shared commitment to strengthen collaboration among universities, government bodies, and CSOs in advancing free legal aid and human rights initiatives in Ethiopia.