New Work Rights Open Doors for Thousands of Refugees

In Ethiopia, a groundbreaking directive is transforming refugee lives by granting, for the first time, the legal right to work, run businesses, and earn fair wages.

“Employers started taking me seriously as a candidate. They stopped making excuses not to hire me,” said Eritrean refugee Michaele Haile, who now works legally and earns a stable income after years confined to camp jobs.

Since its 2019 introduction, more than 24,000 refugees and asylum seekers have gained work and residence permits, marking a decisive step toward independence and inclusion. The reform, backed by the Ethiopia Economic Opportunities Program, allows refugees to open bank accounts, register businesses, and build livelihoods without restrictive capital requirements. Success stories are multiplying — from a Yemeni mother who opened a café with just ETB 1,000 to a Syrian restaurateur employing 700 people. With thousands already benefiting and new ventures on the rise, Ethiopia’s bold refugee policy is proving that economic inclusion fuels both dignity and growth.