IPI Urges Ethiopian Lawmakers to Reject Amendments Threatening Media Independence

The IPI has called on Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to the media law, warning that they threaten the independence of the Ethiopia Media Authority and could reverse gains made in media freedom since 2021. These changes would enhance government control and undermine the diverse representation necessary for effective media regulation.

The International Press Institute (IPI) has urged Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to the media law, which are viewed as detrimental to independent journalism. These amendments threaten to reverse progress made by the 2021 Media Proclamation, which decriminalized defamation and alleviated pre-trial detention for media offenses, thereby enhancing media freedom in the country. The proposed changes could undermine the independence of the Ethiopia Media Authority (EMA) by increasing government control over media regulation, all under the guise of improving administrative efficiency.

The draft bill suggests significant alterations in the appointment procedures for EMA board members, enabling the Prime Minister to nominate the director, while also eliminating the current conflict-of-interest regulations that prevent political party members from occupying board positions. Additionally, it introduces a vague requirement for board composition regarding media-related representatives, diluting the role of civil society and media experts in the decision-making process. This shift could diminish the EMA’s diverse expertise critical for effective media oversight.

Moreover, the amendments propose transferring crucial media licensing powers from the EMA Board to the Authority, which could lead to a reduction in necessary checks and balances. This is particularly concerning, given previous cases of arbitrary license suspensions directed at critical journalists, both local and international. The IPI has emphasized that a free and independent regulatory body is essential for safeguarding press freedom.

Dr. Marystella Simiyu, the IPI’s Africa Senior Legal Advocacy Officer, highlighted the importance of ensuring the independence of media regulatory bodies in adherence to international commitments enshrined in relevant human rights instruments. Consequently, the IPI calls for lawmakers to reject any amendments that would forego the independence of the media regulator and conflict with established international principles.

In summary, the proposed amendments to Ethiopia’s media law pose a significant threat to independent journalism and the accomplishments of the 2021 Media Proclamation. By granting the government increased control over media regulation and undermining institutional independence, these changes could have dire consequences for press freedom in Ethiopia. The IPI strongly advocates for the rejection of these amendments to protect media independence and uphold international commitments to freedom of expression.

Original Source: hornobserver.com