LEAD Training Dire Dawa

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) are essential stakeholders in the electoral process, contributing significantly to the strengthening of democratic governance. Their roles extend beyond election day activities and include voter and civic education, domestic election observation, advocacy for inclusive participation, and the promotion of peaceful and informed electoral engagement. Through these efforts, CSOs help build public trust in electoral institutions and processes, ensuring that citizens are empowered to exercise their democratic rights in an informed and responsible manner.

Recognizing the importance of a well-equipped and knowledgeable civil society, strengthening the institutional and technical capacities of CSOs has been identified as a priority intervention area ahead of the 2026 Ethiopian national election. In particular, enhancing CSOs’ competencies in leadership, understanding of electoral legal and policy frameworks, and election-related thematic areas is critical to enabling them to effectively fulfill their mandates and respond to emerging electoral challenges.

In this context, the Leadership and Conflict Management Skills for Electoral Stakeholders (LEAD) training was conducted from 27–29 January 2026 in Dire Dawa. With the support of European Union and Federal Republic of Germany under EURECS 2 Ethiopia Project, the training aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of CSOs so that they can make meaningful contributions to a transparent, inclusive, and credible electoral process. Through interactive sessions, practical discussions, and experience sharing, participants are being equipped with tools to strengthen organizational leadership, improve election observation and reporting, and support voter education initiatives.

The training brings together 30 participants representing Civil Society Organizations that will be actively engaged in the upcoming national election. Participants are drawn from the Dire Dawa City Administration and the Harari Regional State, fostering cross-regional learning and collaboration. By strengthening partnerships and building a shared understanding of electoral processes, the LEAD training contributes to the creation of a coordinated and informed civil society capable of supporting democratic participation and electoral integrity in Ethiopia.