In recent years, Ethiopia has witnessed a dramatic reversal in press freedom, transitioning from a period of relative openness to a climate of repression and fear for journalists. This shift has been particularly evident since the outbreak of the Tigray conflict in 2020, which has had profound implications for media practitioners across the country.
A Brief Period of Hope
When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed office in 2018, there was a surge of optimism regarding media freedom. The government released imprisoned journalists, unblocked over 250 websites, and lifted bans on numerous media outlets. These actions were seen as steps toward democratization and were lauded by international observers. However, this period of liberalization was short-lived.
Crackdown Following the Tigray Conflict
The onset of the Tigray conflict in November 2020 marked a turning point. The Ethiopian government imposed strict media blackouts, restricted access to conflict zones, and labeled critical reporting as support for terrorism. Journalists covering the conflict faced arrests, harassment, and violence. At least 200 journalists have been arrested since the war began, with 53 forced into exile. Physical attacks, death threats, and harassment have become commonplace, leading to a significant decline in press freedom rankings.
Notably, in September 2023, three journalists were beaten and detained while covering a protest in Tigray. They reported being accused of participating in an illegal protest and were held without formal charges. Such incidents underscore the risks faced by media personnel in Ethiopia.
Legal and Regulatory Suppression
The Ethiopian government has utilized vague anti-terrorism and hate speech laws to suppress dissent. These laws have been employed to arrest journalists and shut down media outlets. For instance, in 2021, the Addis Standard, an independent publication, was suspended, and its journalists were detained. Foreign journalists have also faced expulsion, with the New York Times reporter Simon Marks being expelled in May 2021.
The Ethiopian Media Authority has issued warnings to international outlets like CNN, BBC, and Reuters, accusing them of biased reporting and threatening to revoke their licenses. Such actions have further curtailed independent journalism in the country.
Impact on Journalists and Media Landscape
The hostile environment has led to widespread self-censorship among journalists. Many have fled the country, while others have ceased reporting on sensitive issues. The media landscape has become increasingly dominated by state-controlled outlets, limiting the diversity of perspectives available to the public. This erosion of press freedom has significant implications for Ethiopia’s democratic processes and the public’s right to information.
As Ethiopia approaches its 2026 general election, concerns mount over the ability of journalists to report freely and the public to make informed decisions. The international community continues to call for the protection of press freedom and the safety of journalists in Ethiopia.