EIIPD is an autonomous training, research, and think tank institution for the enhancement of peace, democracy, and development in the IGAD subregion. Essentially, EIIPD is a capacity created for Ethiopian foreign policy and decision-making exercises, but it also makes its services available for the benefit of countries in the Horn of Africa. EIIPD generally aims to: (1) expedite the development efforts of the country; (2) conduct studies on ongoing conflicts and contribute to peace-building efforts in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa; (3) enhance the capacity of government officials in the higher and middle echelons of government; (4) act as a bridge between and within the public and private sectors; (5) conduct policy research; and (6) network and liaise with international institutions that operate in the same area of interest.