Tigrayan Global Civic & Policy Forum (TGCPF)
Independent Civic Think Tank | Policy Research | Governance Reform | Public Accountability
Organizational Overview
The Tigrayan Global Civic & Policy Forum (TGCPF) is an independent civic think tank and digital policy consultancy established by members of the Tigrayan diaspora and international professionals committed to public-interest governance. The Forum operates as a non-religious, non-militarized, and non-partisan platform. It is neither a political party nor a legacy organization, and it maintains no affiliation with armed or security actors.
TGCPF derives its legitimacy from research, ideas, and public accountability rather than from political power, patronage, or loyalty. Its work is grounded in the belief that sustainable and democratic politics depend on strong, credible institutions, where authority is earned through competence, integrity, and service to society.
Rationale for Establishment
TGCPF was formed in response to the institutional crisis facing Tigray in the post-conflict period. Decades of governance shaped by a close entanglement between political authority, military structures, and patronage networks weakened institutional independence and eroded public trust. In many cases, institutions became personalized rather than rule-based, while political competition often displaced policy-driven debate.
This legacy has left deep challenges for democratic recovery, civic space, and professional administration. TGCPF was established to contribute to a new political culture that prioritizes institutional integrity, accountability, and peaceful political engagement. The Forum recognizes that post-war recovery extends beyond physical reconstruction and requires the rebuilding of trust, rules, and civic responsibility.
Drawing on comparative post-conflict experiences, TGCPF seeks to serve as a stabilizing civic actor within Tigray’s evolving political landscape, acting as an intellectual and policy-focused buffer between political competition and social fragmentation.
Mandate and Core Activities
TGCPF focuses on improving the quality of governance rather than pursuing political power. Its work is policy-oriented, research-based, and centered on civic engagement. Core areas of activity include:
- Independent Policy Analysis: Producing research papers, policy briefs, and strategic recommendations on governance reform, institutional rebuilding, economic recovery, and social cohesion.
- Accountability and Ethical Governance: Assessing public institutions, political organizations, civic groups, and leadership practices against standards of transparency, integrity, and conflict-of-interest management.
- Democratic Norms and Civic Space: Promoting evidence-based policymaking, open public debate, and responsible political dialogue as foundations of a resilient society.
- Digital Civic Engagement: Utilizing digital platforms to connect scholars, professionals, civil society actors, and community voices across the global Tigrayan diaspora.
- Institutional Reform Advocacy: Advancing best practices in public administration, merit-based governance, civilian oversight, and the separation of military and civilian authority.
Approach and Principles
TGCPF adopts an evidence-based and comparative approach. Its work emphasizes practical frameworks and actionable ideas rather than political rhetoric. The Forum evaluates all actors equally, including government bodies, opposition groups, civic organizations, and religious institutions, on the basis that democratic credibility requires consistent and universal standards of accountability.
Role in Tigray’s Future
TGCPF positions itself as a constructive civic institution within Tigray’s broader democratic ecosystem. It does not seek political office or authority. Its role is intellectual, advisory, and civic, shaped by a long-term commitment to institutional maturity and public trust.
The Forum reflects a generational aspiration for political evolution in Tigray, from a culture centered on domination and coercion to one grounded in responsibility, restraint, and service. TGCPF holds that such a transformation requires patience, humility in leadership, and discipline of purpose. Restoring trust in institutions is viewed as the essential first step toward sustainable peace, democratic governance, and social recovery.
Tigrayan Global Civic & Policy Forum (TGCPF)
Independent Civic Think Tank • Policy Research • Governance Reform • Public Accountability
