The International Press Institute is urging Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to the media law, which threaten the independence achieved under the 2021 reforms. The amendments could increase government control over media regulation, alter the appointment and composition of the Ethiopian Media Authority, and reduce checks and balances in media licensing. These changes could severely impact press freedom in Ethiopia.
The International Press Institute (IPI) has urged Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to the media law, expressing concern that these changes would reverse progress achieved under the 2021 Media Proclamation. This law, which decriminalized defamation and eliminated pre-trial detention for media offenses, was seen as a monumental advancement for media freedom in Ethiopia. The proposed amendments pose a threat to this independence by potentially increasing government oversight of media regulation.
The new draft bill intends to alter the appointment process for board members of the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA), empowering the Prime Minister to nominate the director and permitting political party members to serve on the board. This initiative could undermine the independent functioning of the EMA, as it introduces vague conditions regarding the composition of the board, deviating from existing provisions that prioritize diversity and expertise within the media sector.
Furthermore, the amendments propose transferring authority over media licensing from the EMA Board to the Authority itself, compromising essential checks and balances. This is particularly alarming in light of past instances where the licenses of critical journalists have been arbitrarily suspended or revoked. An independent media regulatory body is crucial for the protection of press freedom in Ethiopia.
In conclusion, the proposed amendments to Ethiopia’s media laws threaten to diminish the independence of the media and reverse the significant strides made in promoting freedom of expression since the 2021 reforms. The IPI’s call to lawmakers highlights the necessity of maintaining an autonomous media regulatory body in alignment with international human rights standards. It is imperative that these amendments be reconsidered to safeguard Ethiopia’s media environment.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
