ERCS and ICRC Reaffirm Strategic Partnership Despite Funding Challenges
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) held a Partnership Program Annual Review and 2026 Planning Workshop, along with a Safer Access Framework (SAF) Stocktaking Workshop, from 23–24 December 2025 in Addis Ababa.
Opening the workshop, ERCS Deputy Secretary General for Programs, Ato Dires Desyibelew, stated that the meeting focused not only on celebrating achievements made so far, but also on identifying lessons learned to inform future actions. “Our partnership with the ICRC goes beyond financial support,” Ato Dires emphasized. “It is about how resources are effectively utilized and the impact achieved at both institutional and community levels.”
On her part, Mulan Giovannini, ICRC Deputy Head of Delegation in Ethiopia, noted that the cooperation between ERCS and ICRC is grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to addressing the most urgent needs of vulnerable communities. She added, “Despite funding challenges, the ICRC in Ethiopia is making great efforts not only to maintain but also to strengthen its partnership with the ERCS.”
During the two-day workshop, participants reviewed the 2025 Operation Cooperation Agreement (OCA) progress, discussed challenges and lessons learned, and presented key components of the 2026 ERCS–ICRC partnership. Plenary discussions were also held.
In addition, participants took stock of the Safer Access Framework (SAF) within ERCS–ICRC cooperation, discussing achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement.
In his closing remarks, Secretary General of ERCS Ato Abera Lullesa, expressed his gratitude for the long-standing partnership of ERCS-ICRC and gave directions to the respective departments and regional branch offices to strengthen their ability to deliver essential services and humanitarian assistance while building effective partnerships.
The ERCS–ICRC strategic partnership, which dates back to the 1930s and was formalized in 2003 through triennial Partnership Framework Agreements, aims to coordinate efforts to protect and assist people affected by conflict, violence, and disasters in Ethiopia.
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