November 12-13, 2025 (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia): IGAD’s Peace and Security Division successfully concluded the 3rd IGAD Governance Forum, convened under the theme: “The Role of National Democratic Institutions in Promoting Peace and Security.” The two-day forum brought together policy-makers, legislators, judiciaries, election management bodies, human rights institutions, anti-corruption agencies, civil society, youth, women, academia, and media from all IGAD Member States.
The Forum served as a regional platform to reflect, exchange experiences, and chart pathways for strengthening democratic governance as a foundation for peace and stability in the IGAD region. Across the region, challenges such as institutional fragility, governance deficits, climate-induced risks, and cross-border threats continue to shape political and security dynamics. Against this backdrop, the Forum reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to advancing a governance agenda rooted in dialogue, experience-sharing, and collaborative action.
During the opening session, speaking on behalf of H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Commander Abebe Muluneh, Director of the IGAD Peace and Security Division, underlined the essence of inclusive, credible, and resilient democratic institutions in preventing conflict and fostering societal trust. Representing the Government of Ethiopia, the host country, H.E Bikila Hurissa (PhD), Coordinator of Democracy System Building Coordination Centre, Office of the Prime Minister, Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms aimed at revitalising institutions, expanding political participation, strengthening constitutional bodies, and modernizing governance structures.Speaking on behalf of Sweden, Mrs. Agnes Geijer-Farah, rremarked that democratic governance is not only a matter of principle but also of tangible dividends; stability, trust, economic resilience, and the prevention of violent extremism.
The Forum featured five interractive panels designed to spark debate and collective learning:
- Panel 1: Oversight Institutions as Conflict Prevention Tools
National human rights bodies and anti-corruption agencies emphasised how accountability mechanisms build public trust and address early conflict drivers.
- Panel 2: Election Management Bodies and Peaceful Transitions
Panelists reflected on ensuring credible elections, mitigating political tensions, and strengthening legal frameworks for electoral integrity.
- Panel 3: Legislature and Judiciary in Safeguarding Rule of Law
This rich discussion explored the pivotal role of parliaments and courts in preserving constitutional order, ensuring access to justice, and providing peaceful outlets for political contestation.
- Panel 4: Civic and Political Space in the IGAD Region
Representatives of youth, women, CSOs, and think tanks highlighted the need to protect fundamental freedoms and promote meaningful participation across society.
- Panel 5: Media’s Role in Democratic GovernanceMedia practitioners and scholars examined how independent and professional journalism reinforces transparency, accountability, and informed public engagement.
The forum also underscored the importance of: strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms, ensuring credible elections and political transitions, supporting independent judiciaries and parliaments, expanding civic and political space, promoting gender equality and youth inclusion, fostering responsible and professional media, and deepening cooperation with regional and international partners.
In closing, IGAD reaffirmed its commitment support to Member States as they continue building democratic institutions capable of delivering sustainable peace, human rights, and inclusive development.Commander Abebe concluded with a powerful reminder inspired by Martin Luther King Jr, “If you can’t fly, then run; if you can’t run, then walk; if you can’t walk, then crawl — but whatever you do, keep moving forward.” With this spirit of determination, the 3rd IGAD Governance Forum officially wrapped up, marking another significant step in IGAD’s ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and stability across the region.
IGAD conveys its appreciation to the Government of Sweden for its continued support and partnership, and specifically for supporting this forum.
