Community of Practice Meeting on Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWiE)

The Community of Practice (CoP) on Women’s Political Participation, co-chaired by TIMRAN and UN Women, convened its February meeting on February 25, 2026, at the UN Women office. The meeting brought together CoP members and key stakeholders to review ongoing initiatives in preparation for the 7th Ethiopian General Elections, with the aim of strengthening coordination and avoiding duplication of efforts.

During the session, National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) presented its ongoing assessment on violence against women in elections (VAWIE). Participants shared reflections on emerging challenges and explored coordinated responses. Preliminary findings revealed critical gaps, including limited legal protections for women candidates and widespread underreporting of psychological and online harassment.

To address these challenges, the CoP identified strategic areas for joint action, including establishing rapid-response mechanisms for survivors and integrating VAWIE prevention protocols into capacity-building initiatives for electoral stakeholders.

Aligned with Women’s Month activities, the meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing safe and inclusive political participation for all women.