From Addis Ababa to Mekelle: Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Ethiopia

By: Wanjiru Wairimu

FON operates through three funding windows—Emergency, Development, and Networks—which provide resources to CSOs based on their specific needs and goals. During a recent mission to Ethiopia, a diverse FON team, including the global manager, program officer, project financial lead, and communication associate, conducted due diligence assessments to evaluate partners’ organizational structures and capabilities. By engaging directly with these organizations, the team aimed to strengthen and support impactful work addressing GBV in Ethiopia.

Strengthening Partnerships Through On-Site Engagement

A primary goal of this visit was to build rapport with newly onboarded partners and complement online assessments with in-person visits. These engagements provided FON with a comprehensive understanding of each partner’s internal processes, safeguarding measures, and anti-fraud policies. Through interviews, document reviews, and site inspections, the team ensured effective and ethical resource utilization while identifying areas for improvement.

Tailored Support Strategies

The mission also prioritized establishing strong working relationships with CSOs. By engaging governance teams and staff, FON explored challenges and opportunities within each organization’s work. Aligning partner goals with FON’s feminist mission, the team developed tailored strategies to enhance project effectiveness and address Ethiopia’s GBV challenges. Additionally, risk assessments focused on security and advocacy challenges led to actionable solutions for mitigation.

New Partner Organizations

Here are the five organizations which were selected under funding window 3—which encourages feminist CSO collaboration for systemic change via networks and alliances—each contributing uniquely to addressing GBV and promoting gender equality in Ethiopia:

• Network of Ethiopian Women’s Associations (NEWA): A national network of 38 women-led associations focused on advocacy and coordinated action for women’s rights.
• Ethiopian Network of Women Shelter (ENWS): Supporting shelters for GBV survivors, this network of 48 organizations advocates for rehabilitation and reintegration services.
• Ethiopian Women Rights Advocate (EWRA): A grassroots organization addressing policy gaps in GBV prevention and promoting sexual and reproductive health rights.
• Ethiopian Human Rights Council (EHRCO): An independent body promoting human rights, emphasizing women’s rights and GBV prevention.
• Eurika Yebego Adragot Driget (Eurika): Activist-led, Eurika provides safe housing, psychosocial counseling, and legal assistance to GBV survivors in conflict zones.

Key Findings and Recommendations

FON’s two-stage due diligence process—an initial online assessment followed by on-site verification—validated organizational information and identified areas for improvement:

• Commitment to GBV Prevention: All partners exhibited strong dedication despite challenging environments.
• Governance and Security Needs: Enhanced governance structures, safeguarding policies, and security measures are essential.
• Training and Capacity Building: Partners highlighted the need for training in governance, safety protocols, and digital communications.

To address these findings, FON recommended:

• Providing targeted training in governance and communication.
• Strengthening anti-fraud policies and financial management practices.
• Partnering with international organizations for safety training and exploring asylum options for at-risk human rights defenders.

Mission Outcomes and Next Steps

The mission marked a milestone in FON’s partnerships with Ethiopian feminist organizations. Key outcomes included signing partnership agreements to formalize collaboration and establish frameworks for resource allocation and compliance.

FON also hosted an inception workshop, bringing GBV advocates together to build networks, align contractual expectations, and strategize mutual goals. These efforts aim to empower each organization for sustainable impact.

The visit to Ethiopia highlighted the resilience and dedication of feminist organizations combating GBV. By fostering partnerships, addressing needs, and offering targeted support, FON is bolstering the feminist movement in Ethiopia. These collaborations are pivotal for addressing GBV and fostering inclusive societies where women and marginalized groups thrive. Through sustained efforts, FON and its partners are paving the way for a future free from violence and inequality.

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Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) Project

FON contributes to the eradication of gender-based violence worldwide through flexible funding. The Feminist Opportunities Now (FON) project aims to strengthen feminist movements by providing grants, particularly to small, unregistered organizations. With a budget of 7 million euros, FON also offers long-term mentoring and tailored training. Additionally, the project includes an action-research component to ensure the expansion and sustainability of these approaches.