Dealing with a difficult past: time to revitalise the Ethiopian Reconciliation Commission?

Specific steps can strengthen this important commission which, two years after its establishment, still grapples with major challenges.

Ethiopia is undergoing a complex political transition, which has revealed the dire need for reconciliation. The Ethiopian Reconciliation Commission was established to tackle past injustices, violations and recurring conflicts. Two years old, it still grapples with major challenges. Ways to revitalise the Commission should be considered. Its current mandate should be more specific, its institutional setup and member composition revisited, and its powers, capabilities and independence enhanced.

About the authors

Dr Dawit Yohannes is a Senior Researcher in ISS Addis Ababa. He has worked extensively on peace and security in Africa.

Dr Fana Gebresenbet is an Assistant Professor at the Institute for Peace and Security Studies at Addis Ababa University. He has worked on development, conflict and security issues in Ethiopia.