The new CSO-law. Statement from the EPG and DAG
19.01.2009 //
The following statement was issued last Wednesday by the Ambassador's Group (EPG) and the Heads of Development Group (DAG): "A majority of the Ambassadors of the Ethiopian Partners Group (EPG) and the donor Heads of Agency of the D evelopment Assistance Group (DAG) are concerned about the possible impact of the Charities and Societies Proclamation (CSO law), passed by the Ethiopian Parliament on January 6, 2009. The law could potentially restrict the operations of civil society organizations, as well as international partners’ assistance on the Ethiopian government’s development priorities. The EPG and DAG recognize the importance of regulations to ensure standards and transparency of NGOs. However, the international community working in Ethiopia is concerned that this law could restrict our support for programs in areas of mutual interest, such as promoting democracy and good governance, human rights, conflict resolution, and advocacy for women, children and other vulnerable groups." Norway was among the Embassies which signed up to the statement.