Rooted in community. United for migrant rights.
MRPO is legally registered in Ethiopia and dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights, dignity, safety, and wellbeing of migrants and vulnerable people through rights awareness, advocacy, protection, referral, research, community engagement, and partnerships.
Our approach
Our leadership
- Registry No.8051
- Registered14 Aug 2026
- AuthorityACSO
- FrameworkProclamation No. 1113/2019
MRPO is a local, non-profit, non-governmental civil society organization protecting the rights, dignity, safety, and wellbeing of migrants and vulnerable people in Ethiopia.
Legally registered under the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Authority for Civil Society Organizations, we believe every person deserves to be treated with respect and dignity — regardless of their background, nationality, or migration status.
Through advocacy, awareness creation, community engagement, partnerships, and rights-based initiatives, we work toward a society where the rights of migrants are protected and their voices are heard.
What drives our work.
To promote and protect migrant rights through advocacy, awareness, empowerment, partnership, and community-based action.
The society we’re working toward.
A society where migrants live with dignity, safety, equality, and hope.
Our organizational structure.
Administrative reporting relationships set out in MRPO’s Articles of Association.
- Board of Directors
- Manager
- Accountant
- Cashier
- Other employees
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Manager
A Board member may not also serve as the Auditor or the Manager.
Ten objectives. One commitment to migrant rights.
The organization’s objectives under Article 3 of its Articles of Association.
Free legal assistance
To provide free legal assistance, legal advice, and court representation services to Ethiopian migrant workers residing both within Ethiopia and abroad, in order to protect and uphold their rights.
Preparation for overseas employment
To provide free professional advice and guidance to citizens intending to travel abroad for employment, enabling them to adequately prepare for their departure by understanding employment conditions and their rights.
Temporary accommodation and mental health support
To establish temporary accommodation for a period of one to two weeks, together with professional psychological counseling and mental health support, for citizens returning to Ethiopia after experiencing psychological and mental health difficulties as a result of migration.
Research and policy recommendations
To identify legal gaps and challenges relating to overseas employment through research and studies, and to provide policy input and recommendations to the Government to help ensure that national policies comply with international standards.
Accountability for human trafficking
To identify individuals and networks involved in human trafficking, report them to the relevant domestic and international law enforcement authorities, and support efforts to ensure that they are held legally accountable.
Enforcement of employment contracts
To initiate legal proceedings against overseas employment agencies that breach or violate workers’ employment contracts and pursue the cases before the courts.
Coordinated protection abroad
To work in coordination with relevant government institutions, security bodies, and international organizations to protect and uphold the rights of Ethiopian citizens living abroad.
Representation and consular coordination
To provide representation to Ethiopian citizens in countries where they travel for employment, coordinate with the relevant Ethiopian consular offices to safeguard their rights, and facilitate close follow-up on their situations.
Returnee training and reintegration
To provide training to returning migrant workers to help them establish their own businesses and, in coordination with relevant institutions, facilitate access to rehabilitation, reintegration, and start-up support.
Emergency assistance and repatriation
To provide emergency assistance to Ethiopian citizens living abroad; coordinate with relevant bodies to facilitate the repatriation of the remains of citizens who die while working abroad; and help citizens who sustain physical injuries obtain appropriate compensation.
The people behind our purpose.
Learn how our leadership is organized. Board, executive leadership & advisors →
Independent counsel supporting the board.
Four principles guide how we work with every partner and community.
MRPO seeks cooperation with institutions and communities to strengthen migrant protection.
- Rights-based
- People-centered
- Inclusive
- Partnership-oriented
Six commitments that shape every program we run.
Our work reaches migrants at every stage of the journey.
Join us in making a difference.
Your support can help us build safer and more inclusive communities. Whether you are a volunteer, partner, supporter, or concerned citizen, you can be part of our mission. Together, we can protect rights, restore dignity, and create hope.