A Comparative Analysis of Ethiopian Employment Policy

Abstract

This comparative analysis was aimed to make comparison of national employment policy and strategies between developing and developed countries. To this end, National Employment policies of Ethiopia, Kenya and France was taken as a unit of analysis for comparison. The method of analysis was mainly descriptive by reviewing the contents, and contexts of the policy of these countries based on the given framework. The results of analysis revealed that there is a great deal of similarities/convergence between the two African countries - Ethiopia and Kenya in terms of policy content and context. For instance, the rationale and main focus of their employment policies are mainly revolving around employment creation and poverty reduction; but that of France is full employment and better jobs. In many aspects, the main contents and structure of the policy document of Ethiopia and Kenya are similar; but that of France is not. The policies of these three countries are often affected by the ideologies of the political context in which the policy is formulated and implemented. For example, the Ethiopian and Kenyan employment policies are largely under the influence of the ideologies of the governing parties and reflecting their preferences. Whereas that of France is reflecting the ideologies of the European Union. Countries particularly like Ethiopia and Kenya, whose economy is predominantly agrarian/rural with a labour market characterized by the existence of a substantial informal sector, greater focus would be needed on creating high growth of employment-intensive sectors and measures that can gradually transform the informal into formal employment. Visible support and regular commitment from the Governments and responsible Ministers and heads of Departments and Agencies and other relevant Regional/County stakeholders are essential for the effective implementation of the national employment policies and strategies in those countries under this review.

Keywords: Comparative analysis, Employment policy, Ethiopia

DOI: 10.7176/RJFA/13-5-01

Publication date:March 31^st 2022