Ethiopia’s justice sector reform yielding promising outcomes  

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2025 (FMC) — The ongoing reform in justice services delivery in Ethiopia is providing positive results, marking meaningful progress in expanding the services, Justice Minister Hanna Araya Selassie said.

Speaking at a high-level forum on the implementation of the transformation of federal and regional courts and judicial institutions today, Justice Minister Hanna Araya Selassie said the impact of the nationwide reforms on the justice transformation is impressive.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of a nine-month performance report on the implementation of the federal courts transformation road map along with updates on efforts to reform judicial institutions nationwide.

The minister noted that a comprehensive three-year justice sector transformation plan is currently underway, with significant progress already achieved, particularly in expanding access to justice and improving service delivery.

She emphasized the official recognition of traditional courts, backed by a recently approved proclamation in the Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, Sidama, and South Merab regions, an important step in formalizing customary justice systems.

Hanna also underscored the sector’s focus on enhancing accountability and ethics as well as the growing integration of new technologies aimed at improving efficiency and responsiveness within the justice system.

On his part, the Federal Supreme Court President Tewodros Mihret presented updates on the Federal Courts Reform Road map.

He emphasized the adoption of new guidelines designed to streamline and modernize court operations, particularly through technological advancements aimed at making judicial processes more effective and accessible.

The forum brought together prominent officials, including Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagese Chafo, Deputy Speaker Lomi Bedo, regional speakers, court presidents, and other government representatives.