WHEREAS, the Defense Forces of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is organized, to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, to embody the equitable representation of nations, nationalities, and peoples, and to carry out its functions free of any partnership to any political organization;

WHEREAS, it has been found necessary to have a legal framework for the Defense Forces of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia by which is directed and consistent with its contemporary commitments and which takes into account its future commitments;

WHEREAS, it has become necessary to improve the issue of the determination of retirement age and extension of retirement age, the rights of Defense Force, benefits and incentives, about the implementation situation and process of national recall in situation of danger to the country’s existence, about national service, about medals and certificates to be awarded to members of Defense Force;

WHEREAS, it has become necessary to revise and consolidate the existing legal framework of the Defense Forces of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia;

NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with Article 55(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, it is hereby proclaimed as follows.