1. Support research, training and consultancy undertakings for evidence based policy and decision making by the government of Ethiopia with focus on, but is not limited to, peace building, democratic governance, state-building, and cultural diversity.

2. Promote dialogue and interaction between social researchers and policy makers in Ethiopia with a view to enhancing the impact of research on policy-making and implementation;

3. Conduct research and encourage and promote the study and research in Ethiopia by focusing on peace building, democratic governance, state-building, and cultural diversity.

4. Lead and influence national discourses and dialogues in Ethiopia by focusing on peace building,democratic governance, state-building, and cultural diversity.

5. Promote the research and training capacity of Ethiopian scholars and policy actors in Ethiopia by encouraging the establishment of programmes, projects and activities dedicated to this goal;

6. Work in close co-operation with other individuals and institutions in Ethiopia or elsewhere that are engaged in research and capacity building in the fields.