Mekelle University Partners with UNODC and EU to Modernise Tigray’s Police Force

The Mekelle University (MU) School of Law has launched a strategic two-day capacity-building workshop aimed at revitalising the criminal justice system within the Tigray region.

The training, which runs from February 7–8, 2026, at the Northern Star Hotel, is a collaborative initiative between the Mekelle University Legal Aid Center (MULAC), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the European Union (EU).

Strengthening Post-Conflict Policing

The programme is specifically tailored to equip police officers with the necessary frameworks for democratic policing in post-conflict environments. Key pillars of the curriculum include:

Human Rights & Ethics: Aligning regional security operations with international human rights standards.

Accountability: Enhancing transparency and professional conduct within the force.

Due Process: Strengthening the delivery of legal aid and ensuring adherence to the rule of law.

A Commitment to Justice Reform

During the opening session, Dr. Zbelo Tesfamariam of Mekelle University and Mr. Getahun Huluf of the Tigray Police Commission highlighted the critical nature of this intervention. They emphasized that professionalizing the police force is fundamental to the region's broader justice reform agenda.

The initiative reflects MU's central role in regional stability and its commitment to fostering a justice system that is both transparent and accountable to the citizens of Tigray.