According to a study published this week by the Center for Rights and Democracy Development, at least 63 journalists were detained in Ethiopia between 2020 and 2022.
It is claimed that Addis Abeba, Amhara, Oromia, Afar, and Somali regions accounted for the majority of the arrests. The center stated that there is still a significant risk to journalists’ safety and mentioned the recent deaths of two journalists.
According to reports, widespread foreign interference in the media and the arrest and killing of media professionals have severely restricted the nation’s right to free speech.
It has since been established that these expectations did not come true. After the 2018 reforms, Ethiopia’s media sector had high hopes for freedom and development. For example, Ethiopia was ranked as having the 114th-highest level of speech freedom in France 2020, despite only having the 99th-highest level two years prior.
The center claims that political pressure is exerted on Ethiopia’s mass media. However, despite the fact that it has grown incredibly challenging, it is also asserted that the number is increasing.
Ethiopia is anticipated to have 117 public and private media outlets by the year 2022. 39 television stations and 78 radio stations are included.
According to the Center’s research, print media are allegedly becoming less prevalent in comparison to other media options. By 2022, there will be 18 private print media outlets and 11 government-run ones.