The Policy Research Working Paper Series disseminates ongoing research to encourage the exchange of ideas on development issues. Its objective is to circulate findings quickly, even if the presentation is not fully polished. The papers are attributed to their authors and should be cited accordingly. The findings, interpretations, and conclusions expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/World Bank, its affiliated organizations, the Executive Directors of the World Bank, or the governments they represent. Policy Research Working Paper 11254 examines the early implementation of Ethiopia’s refugee work rights policy, focusing on the issuance of permits that allow refugees to engage in economic activities. Building on the significant legal and institutional advances under the 2019 Refugee Proclamation and subsequent directives, the paper analyzes how these reforms are being operationalized.