Lifting of the State of Emergency in Ethiopia

The lifting of the State of Emergency, which was established ten months ago following violent protests throughout the country, by the Ethiopian Parliament is a step in the right direction, particularly in the run-up to the 2018 local elections.

Continued efforts on all sides are still required to address the grievances that led to the protests. Sustainable solutions require inclusive, constructive dialogue and political reform, as well as a peaceful and democratic environment in which criticism and shortcomings can be constructively addressed in Ethiopia. Further violence would only hamper this process.