Freedom of movement

Foreign nationals lawfully in Ethiopia have the right to freedom of movement within the country. This right, however, is not absolute and can be restricted under specific regulations. Recognized refugees and asylum seekers have similar rights, but their movement can be regulated by the Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS). Although Ethiopia pledged to expand its Out-of-Camp Policy (OCP) for refugees, most still reside in camps with limited movement.

The movement and residence of refugees outside camps are governed by a 2019 Directive, categorizing refugees into three groups: pass permit holders, urban assisted refugees, and those with regular residency outside camps. Pass permits allow refugees to leave camps for various reasons, including education, medical treatment, and family visits. Urban refugees can reside in cities like Addis Ababa under exceptional conditions, such as medical needs or protection concerns. The OCP has been expanded to include all nationalities, provided they meet certain conditions, including a minimum stay in camps.

Ethiopian laws recognize the right of asylum seekers to move freely within the country while their status is being determined, regardless of how they entered the country. Asylum seekers can appeal decisions regarding their movement or residency through administrative or judicial remedies. They can also seek redress for denial of services by the RRS or report maladministration to the Ombudsman.

The Ethiopian Constitution guarantees everyone, including refugees, the right to seek justice. Refugees can bring justiciable matters to court or competent bodies and seek administrative remedies for any grievances related to their movement or residency. The Refugees and Returnees Grievances and Appeals Handling Directive provides a framework for refugees to lodge complaints and appeal decisions made by immigration or RRS officials.

In summary, while Ethiopian laws provide a framework for the movement and detention of foreign nationals, including refugees and asylum seekers, practical challenges and limitations persist. These include the lack of detailed procedural guidelines for detentions, limited freedom of movement for refugees residing in camps, and the need for improved awareness and implementation of refugees' rights among service providers.