Solidarity Gap Impedes Safer Media Landscape

During the weekly Editors’ Breakfast Meeting held at Addis Ababa Hilton Hotel on November 16, 2023, over 30 news editors, legal experts, human rights advocates and media researchers highlighted the growing concerns about the safety and freedom of Ethiopian Journalists. The lack of solidarity among media houses to collectively address these unprecedented risks was identified as a significant factor contributing to the precarious situation faced by journalists across the nation.

The meeting, attended by prominent figures in the Ethiopian media landscape, delved into the physical and digital dangers that journalists encounter on a daily basis. Participants discussed the crucial role of media employers and the need for effective regulatory frameworks to ensure the safety of journalists.

Ethiopian Journalists face numerous challenges including physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, threats and intimidations, and online harassments in line of duty. The risks are particularly pronounced for those reporting on sensitive topics including corruption, human rights violations, or political unrest. The absence of a united front among media houses to collectively bargain for better protection exacerbates these dangers, leaving journalists more vulnerable.

According to forum participants, solidarity among media organizations is essential to address these safety concerns effectively. By working together, media houses can advocate for stronger legal protections, raise public awareness about the importance of a free press, and establish support mechanisms for journalists facing threats in Ethiopia.

The Editors’ Breakfast Meeting underscored the urgent need for media employers to prioritize the safety of their journalists. Media organizations should provide adequate training, resources, and support to ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of reprisal. By fostering a culture of safety and solidarity within their organizations, media organizations can contribute to a safer environment for journalists in Ethiopia.