GENDER EQUALITY ACROSS THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS IN ETHIOPIA | 2025

The report provides an evidence-based overview of gender equality across Ethiopia’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting both achievements and persistent challenges. Ethiopia has demonstrated strong political commitment through its Ten-Year Development Plan, legal reforms, and alignment with international frameworks such as CEDAW and the SDGs. Progress is evident in areas such as declining maternal mortality, increased girls’ enrolment in primary education, expanded social protection, and improved women’s representation in parliament, which stands at 41.9 percent.

However, progress remains uneven, with structural inequalities continuing to constrain women’s empowerment. Poverty remains widespread, with 68.7 percent of the population experiencing multidimensional poverty, disproportionately affecting women and vulnerable groups. Women face limited access to formal employment (27.3 percent), productive resources such as land and irrigation, and social protection coverage, while carrying a disproportionate burden of unpaid care work.

Gender-based violence remains pervasive, with nearly one in three ever-partnered women experiencing intimate partner violence, and early marriage and female genital mutilation continue to affect girls’ well-being and opportunities. Despite gains in education, significant drop-offs occur at secondary and tertiary levels, driven by socio-cultural norms and economic barriers.

Emerging challenges—including climate change, conflict, and limited access to clean energy—further exacerbate gender inequalities, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Women also face a digital divide, with relatively low access to internet and technology. The report emphasizes the critical role of strengthening gender data systems and promoting investments across six transition areas, including energy, food systems, digital connectivity, education, social protection, and climate action. It calls for targeted, gender-responsive policies and improved data to accelerate progress and ensure inclusive development.