The Humanitarian Country Team in Ethiopia has introduced a new Code of Conduct and associated Joint Operating Principles to guide humanitarian activities in the country. This move comes in response to the ever-increasing protection incidents and safety and security risks faced by civilians, aid workers, and humanitarian assets.

The Humanitarian Country Team, which includes representatives from United Nations agencies, international and national NGOs, and donors, developed these new guidelines to establish clear standards of expected conduct for all humanitarian workers. The documents also outline the conditions required for humanitarian organizations to provide life-saving assistance in a safe and principled manner.

“Humanitarian partners in Ethiopia are committed to providing aid to Ethiopians affected by conflict, insecurity, natural disasters, or health emergencies, regardless of their location,” said Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia. “However, our ability to reach people in need is dependent on sufficient resources and unimpeded access throughout the country, with the acceptance of all stakeholders.”

The introduction of the Code of Conduct aims to enhance public understanding of how the humanitarian community operates and enable safe and secure access to populations in need. Dr. Alakbarov emphasized that any attacks on or abuse of humanitarian workers will not be tolerated.

“We hope that by raising awareness about the challenges faced by civilians and the essential obligation to protect humanitarian workers and the response they deliver, we will see a positive change,” he added.

The new guidelines will be widely disseminated across Ethiopia over the coming months as the Humanitarian Country Team works to ensure the safety and security of all humanitarian personnel and the effective delivery of life-saving assistance to those in need.