I read with grave concern your November 30 front-page article, “Hurried Media Bill Backpedals Recent Reforms, Threatens Press Freedom.” As someone with over 16 years of experience in Ethiopian media, I feel compelled to reflect on the draft media law and its troubling implications for press freedom, media governance, and Ethiopia’s fragile democratic progress.
Ethiopia stands at a critical juncture in its media evolution. The proposed amendments to the mass media law, ostensibly aimed at addressing gaps in governance and bolstering national security, have alarmed media professionals, civil society organizations, and press freedom advocates alike. At stake is the delicate balance between regulatory oversight and the fundamental right to freedom of expression. Institutional independence and the empowerment of professional associations are indispensable pillars of this balance.
One of the most pressing concerns is the erosion of independence within the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA). The draft legislation grants the prime minister unilateral authority to appoint key officials and allows politically affiliated individuals to serve on the Authority’s board. This centralization of decision-making jeopardizes the EMA’s neutrality, undermining its ability to act as an impartial regulator.
The existing media law, enacted in 2021, provided safeguards to protect against political interference, including public participation in board nominations. These measures were instrumental in creating a more equitable and autonomous media environment. Dismantling these provisions would undo the progress Ethiopia has made toward a freer and more democratic society.
To preserve the EMA’s independence, the draft legislation must restore these safeguards and ensure a transparent, inclusive appointment process for its board. Such steps are not merely symbolic—they are essential to upholding press freedom and fostering public trust in the country’s media institutions.
Beyond the EMA, Ethiopia’s independent professional associations, such as the Ethiopian Media Council, play a crucial role in maintaining journalistic standards and ensuring accountability. Comprised of media practitioners and stakeholders, these bodies serve as independent watchdogs, arbiters, and advocates for ethical journalism.
Strengthening these associations could create a robust system of checks and balances. For instance, the Ethiopian Media Council could establish ethical guidelines, mediate disputes, and offer capacity-building programs for journalists. Moreover, these organizations can act as strategic allies in the fight against misinformation, promoting responsible reporting in an increasingly polarized media environment.
Incorporating provisions to empower professional associations in the draft law would not only reinforce press freedom but also enhance the credibility and resilience of Ethiopia’s media landscape.
In an era dominated by digital platforms, the rise of misinformation further complicates the country’s media challenges. Political and ethnic divisions have amplified the spread of falsehoods, often fueled by both state-controlled outlets and independent influencers, such as YouTubers, with biased or sensationalized content.
The proposed media law must tackle the issue of misinformation through constructive and non-punitive approaches. Initiatives such as fact-checking programs, digital literacy campaigns, and collaborations with civil society organizations can play a pivotal role in countering false narratives and fostering responsible consumption of information. The government should also work closely with independent media associations to develop ethical reporting guidelines tailored to the digital age.
However, efforts to address misinformation must not be weaponized as a tool to silence legitimate criticism or stifle dissenting voices. Striking the delicate balance between promoting accountability and protecting freedom of expression is crucial to maintaining a democratic and open society.
A particularly contentious aspect of the draft media law is the opacity surrounding its formulation and the limited opportunities for public input. While the government has held consultations with some stakeholders, these efforts have been widely criticized as superficial and insufficient. Many participants in recent hearings have voiced serious concerns about the draft law’s implications for press freedom and called for more robust and inclusive discussions to address these shortcomings.
To build consensus and legitimacy, the government must commit to a transparent and participatory legislative process. This means not only seeking input from media professionals, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders but also ensuring their feedback is meaningfully incorporated into the final draft. Public consultations should be open, well-publicized, and conducted with genuine intent, creating an environment where diverse perspectives are heard and respected.
Several steps are necessary to address these challenges and promote a thriving, independent media environment in Ethiopia.
First, the Media Authority’s independence must be preserved by reinstating safeguards against political interference and partisan appointments. A neutral and autonomous regulatory body is essential for fostering a fair and balanced media landscape. Second, professional associations like the Ethiopian Media Council must be empowered to take on greater responsibilities. These organizations can play a critical role in maintaining journalistic standards, mediating disputes, and promoting ethical reporting practices.
Third, misinformation must be addressed constructively through education and collaboration rather than punitive measures that risk suppressing legitimate journalism. Fact-based reporting, supported by initiatives such as digital literacy campaigns and partnerships with civil society, can help combat misinformation without infringing on press freedom. Fourth, the government must prioritize transparency and inclusivity in the legislative process. Comprehensive public consultations that reflect a broad spectrum of voices are crucial for building trust and ensuring the final law aligns with democratic values.
Finally, fostering media pluralism is essential. Supporting the growth of independent media outlets and ensuring mechanisms are in place to protect journalists from harassment and intimidation will enable a free and fearless press to flourish.
Ethiopia’s media sector has the potential to become a transformative force for democracy, development, and social cohesion. Yet, this potential can only be realized if press freedom is safeguarded and independent institutions are allowed to thrive. While the proposed amendments to the media law may stem from a desire to address pressing challenges, they must not come at the expense of the foundational principles that underpin a free and open society.
By upholding institutional independence, empowering professional associations, addressing misinformation constructively, and fostering transparency, Ethiopia can establish a media environment that balances freedom with accountability. Such a framework will not only strengthen the media’s role as a watchdog and public informer but also contribute significantly to the broader goals of national development and democratic governance.
(Bruh Yihunbelay is currently the station manager of Tirita 97.6 FM.)
