Ethiopia, Partners Launch Second Phase of COMPASS Initiative

Addis Ababa, November 16, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the government of the Netherlands have officially launched the second phase of the COMPASS partnership on Friday, a strategic initiative designed to address migration challenges and promote sustainable solutions.

Spanning from 2024 to 2027, this new phase focuses on strengthening migration governance, protecting vulnerable migrants, and reducing irregular migration in Ethiopia.

State Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Huria Ali, expressed the government’s unwavering commitment to combating irregular migration through collaborative efforts with international partners.

Highlighting the program’s achievements, she noted Ethiopia’s renewed focus on promoting safe, regular, and dignified migration.

The government continues to prioritize solutions that address migration challenges, including reintegration support for returning migrants and capacity-building initiatives to enhance migration governance.

Dutch Ambassador to Ethiopia, Christine Pirenne emphasized the Netherlands’ holistic approach to migration management, which prioritizes safeguarding human rights and strengthening governance frameworks.

She acknowledged that COMPASS aligns with these priorities, playing a crucial role in addressing irregular migration and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Ambassador Pirenne underscored the importance of raising awareness about the risks of irregular migration and fostering cooperation among stakeholders to achieve sustainable results.

IOM Ethiopia’s Chief of Mission, Abibatou Wane, expressed optimism about the expanded scope of the COMPASS program. She explained that the initiative not only addresses immediate migration challenges but also creates long-term opportunities for community development.

The program’s integrated approach underscores its dedication to ensuring safe, orderly, and dignified migration while enhancing resilience among migrants and their communities.

The first phase of the COMPASS initiative, launched globally in 2021, has already achieved significant milestones in Ethiopia.

Building on these successes, the second phase of COMPASS aims to enhance migration governance frameworks by fostering interagency collaboration at national and local levels.

It also seeks to address the root causes of irregular migration by implementing community projects that reduce poverty and create economic opportunities in high-mobility areas. Furthermore, the program will continue to provide critical protection and reintegration support for stranded migrants along key migration routes.

Ethiopia, as a major country of origin and transit for migrants in the Horn of Africa, continues to face significant challenges related to migration.

The COMPASS partnership, according to local newswire service’s report, represents a collaborative effort to address these issues through innovative and sustainable solutions.

With its focus on governance, protection, and community development, the program sets a strong foundation for tackling migration challenges and fostering resilience for years to come.