The IPI is calling on Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed media law amendments, which could undermine independent journalism and the advancements made with the 2021 Media Proclamation. These amendments threaten to centralize control over media regulation and weaken the EMA’s independence. The IPI emphasizes the need for an autonomous regulatory body to ensure media freedom, crucial for upholding international standards and protecting journalists.
The International Press Institute (IPI) has urged Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to the media law, suggesting that these changes threaten the progress made in media freedom since the 2021 Media Proclamation. This earlier law, which decriminalized defamation and eliminated pre-trial media detentions, is now at risk due to new provisions aimed at enhancing government control over media regulation under the guise of improving administrative efficiency.
The draft amendments allow for the Prime Minister to nominate the director of the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA) and mandate that board members may no longer be excluded due to political affiliations, undermining pluralism and independence. The current law ensures the EMA Board includes representatives from civil society, media professionals, and other relevant sectors, promoting diverse insights into media regulation.
Moreover, the proposed changes would transfer significant powers concerning media licensing from the EMA Board to the Authority, diminishing vital checks and balances. This raises concerns about potential misuse of power, illustrated by instances of arbitrary license suspensions targeting critical journalists both locally and internationally.
Dr. Marystella Simiyu, IPI’s Africa Senior Legal Advocacy Officer, emphasized the necessity of an independent media regulatory body for safeguarding press freedom and aligning with international legal obligations. She urged members of the legislature to dismiss any amendments that could compromise this independence and contravene international standards on freedom of expression and media.
The IPI strongly advocates for the maintenance of principles that protect media freedom and calls on lawmakers to act in the best interest of journalistic integrity and autonomy in Ethiopia.
In summary, the IPI’s statement highlights the crucial role of maintaining independent media regulation in Ethiopia. The proposed amendments jeopardize the significant strides made since the 2021 Media Proclamation, raising red flags about government overreach in media governance. By urging lawmakers to reject these changes, the IPI reinforces the importance of adhering to international standards in safeguarding press freedom. Continued vigilance is necessary to protect the rights of journalists and the integrity of the media landscape in Ethiopia.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
