According to its By-Laws of EDA, the main objectives of the Association are:
1. To provide platforms to address common challenges faced by members of the Diaspora participating in the process of investment and transfer of knowhow and technology and facilitate experience sharing;
2. To promote positive image of the Diaspora participating in development activities of the country through the use of mass media;
3. To motivate and strengthen active participation of the Diaspora in national development activities thereby bringing about technology transfer;
4. To share challenges faced by the Diaspora in the countries they are living and in Ethiopia and to facilitate ways for addressing these challenges;
5. To coordinate and integrate national development and growth activities not only among members but also with government bodies and non-governmental organizations; and,
6. To make constructive efforts towards building peace and democracy in the nation thereby coordinating members in the country and abroad.