Study calls for more proactive, rights-based approach to migration governance

(HoA-REC&N) September 26, 2025– A team from the Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre and Network (HoA-REC&N) at Addis Ababa University highlighted the importance of working together to tackle migration challenges in the Horn of Africa. This call was articulated in a scientific paper presented at the international conference entitled “Migration and Development in the East and Horn of Africa.”

At the conference, Alebachew Adem, who serves as the Research and Fundraising Coordinator at HoA-REC&N, delivered a presentation on a study entitled “Mobility in the Margins: Climate, Conflict, and the Future of Migration Governance in East Africa.” He emphasised the ways in which environmental pressures and regional instability are transforming migration patterns and critiqued existing policy frameworks, advocating for a proactive, rights-based approach to migration governance.

Alebachew observed that in nations such as Djibouti and Ethiopia, migration frequently serves as a means of survival in the face of conflict, displacement, and the breakdown of communities. He noted that more than 1.2 million Ethiopians are at risk of climate and inter-ethnic displacement, often navigating broken paths through Djibouti, where governance shortcomings leave many in precarious situations.

In a special interview after the conference, Alebachew shared that the event centred on sub-themes including Labour Migration, Migrant Protection, Migration Governance, and Irregular Migration—subjects closely tied to his presentation. He noted that HoA-REC&N’s involvement stemmed from its acknowledged expertise and continuous research at the crossroads of climate change, environmental sustainability, and human mobility.

He highlighted that the conference served as an essential platform for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to engage in discussions about the intricate challenges and opportunities related to migration in the region.  The event sought to promote informed discussions on the protection of migrants, the potential for migration to contribute to development, enhancements in governance, and solutions for irregular migration, while also pinpointing policy gaps and fostering regional collaboration.

The leadership role of HoA-REC&N was significantly enhanced by its active involvement. Program Coordinator John Ajjugo emphasised that the team seized the chance to showcase HoA-REC&N’s efforts on climate-induced migration and explore possible partnerships with other organisations.

Alebachew also noted that the presentation served as a remarkable opportunity to highlight the Center’s research emphasis on climate-conflict mobility, underscoring its dedication to shaping regional migration and displacement policies.

The conference took place from September 17 to 18 at the New Level Hotel in Dire Dawa, drawing 180 participants from a variety of backgrounds. Attendees included representatives from Addis Ababa University, Dire Dawa University, Wollo University, and international institutions such as Kyambogo University from Uganda, universities from Somalia, the University of Nairobi in Kenya, the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, as well as universities from Sudan and South Sudan’s University of Juba.  International organisations such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and government officials from Ethiopia and surrounding nations were also part of the participants.

The event, organised by Dire Dawa University in partnership with Addis Ababa University and the ILO, sought to promote regional dialogue regarding the challenges and opportunities of migration in East Africa. (HoA-REC&N)