Peace building, human rights & democratization

In Tigray’s fragile transitional period, civil society has a critical role in ensuring that justice processes, governance reforms, and peacebuilding efforts are inclusive, accountable, and responsive to local needs. This strategic objective aims to strengthen the advocacy capacity of ACSOT and its members to influence policies on transitional justice, civic space, IDP protection, and social services. The focus is not only on voicing demands but on shaping public discourse, convening stakeholders, and creating platforms where marginalized and victimized populations can meaningfully participate. Strategic communication will be deployed to counter misinformation, unify messaging, and shift narratives from elite-driven agendas toward people-centered recovery.

  • Public policy and advocacy encompass a broad range of government activities — laws, initiatives, and actions — aimed at shaping priorities and directing government efforts.
    Although ACSOT and its member organizations do not have the formal mandate to create policies or laws, we believe in influencing how policies are made. Our goal is to bridge the silos of past decades by building strong mechanisms that encourage inclusive policymaking.
  • We emphasize that government and civil society organizations (CSOs) must work together to create a resilient GO–NGO ecosystem, ensuring that CSOs are actively involved in:
    • Formulating public policies and laws
    • Designing civil society procedures and systems
    • Creating workable frameworks for collaboration with international humanitarian actors and UN agencies
  • As a platform organization, ACSOT works closely with the government and philanthropic partners to improve the socioeconomic well-being of communities.

    We aim to:
    ♦️ Strengthen our observatory seat in the House of People’s Representatives
    ♦️ Influence policy analysts and political leaders
    ♦️ Encourage citizen participation and inclusion of marginalized groups
    ♦️ Promote civic engagement, particularly local CSO participation in post-war rehabilitation and reconstruction

Through internal and external advocacy and strong media engagement, ACSOT works to create an enabling environment for CSOs in Tigray, promote human rights and social justice, and drive sustainable community development.

Internal Advocacy

ACSOT strengthens the voice and capacity of its member organizations by providing training, resources, and strategic support. Through internal advocacy, we help members articulate their needs, concerns, and recommendations effectively within ACSOT and in wider networks.

External Advocacy

ACSOT works with governments, policymakers, and partners to influence policies and address systemic issues. Together, we amplify members’ voices and drive positive social, economic, and environmental change.

Media & Communication

ACSOT uses media and digital platforms to raise awareness, share success stories, and mobilize public support for advocacy campaigns.