ADDIS ABABA, May 2026 – The Ministry of Women and Social Affairs (MoWSA), the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), and the UN/PSEA Network have concluded a joint workshop in Addis Ababa focused on the development of a specialized draft regulation concerning sexual misconduct.The primary objective of drafting this new regulation is to proactively prevent all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse within the workplace. By establishing clear legal and ethical boundaries, the initiative aims to create a work environment that is entirely free from harassment and misconduct, ensuring the safety and dignity of all public servants.During the sessions, organizers emphasized that the draft regulation serves as a critical tool for institutional reform. The discussions centered on several key areas:• Preventative Frameworks: Implementing robust measures to identify and mitigate risks of sexual misconduct before they occur.• Creating a Safe Environment: Establishing a professional culture where employees feel secure, respected, and empowered to perform their duties without fear of exploitation.• Standardizing the Code of Conduct: Aligning the Federal Civil Service guidelines with international PSEA standards to provide a unified approach to workplace safety.Advancing Institutional Integrity Representatives from MoWSA and the FCSC highlighted that a misconduct-free workplace is a prerequisite for effective public service. They noted that this draft regulation is not merely a legal requirement but a fundamental step toward building a modern, ethical, and citizen-centered government.The workshop participants agreed on a framework to finalize the draft, which will include comprehensive training and awareness programs across government institutions to ensure every employee understands the protections and responsibilities outlined in the new regulation.

