Ethiopia’s Escalating Crackdown on Press Freedom and Civil Society: A Threat too Democratic Progress
Ethiopia, once hailed as a beacon of democratic hope in the Horn of Africa, is experiencing a deeply concerning regression in freedoms of speech, press, and association.A systematic campaign of intimidation, legal maneuvering, and outright suppression is targeting journalists, independent media outlets, and civil society organizations, raising serious questions about the integrity of upcoming elections and the future of democratic progress in the country. This escalating crackdown demands urgent attention from both regional and international stakeholders.
A Pattern of Repression Targeting Independent Voices
The Ethiopian government’s actions over the past several years reveal a clear pattern of stifling dissent and controlling the narrative. Rather than fostering a vibrant public sphere, authorities are increasingly resorting to tactics reminiscent of previous authoritarian regimes.This includes the arbitrary investigation of journalists based on vague allegations, the imposition of restrictive charges, and the deliberate suppression of critical reporting.
The consequences are stark. Two foreign correspondents have been deported in recent years, signaling a clear intolerance for international scrutiny. More alarmingly, dozens of Ethiopian journalists have been forced into exile, fleeing a climate of fear and persecution – a trend documented extensively by organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). https://cpj.org/2024/06/fleeing-prolonged-media-crackdown-ethiopian-journalists-struggle-in-exile/
This isn’t limited to the media. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to protecting human rights and promoting good governance are also under sustained attack. Prominent groups have faced suspension of operations, while human rights defenders are subjected to intimidation, surveillance, and the constant threat of legal repercussions. Human Rights Watch has documented these abuses, highlighting the government’s consideration of sweeping amendments to the 2019 civil society law – changes that would effectively dismantle the remaining space for independent action. https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/01/29/ethiopia-key-rights-groups-suspended https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/06/18/ethiopia-halt-crackdown-against-human-rights-groups https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/07/29/ethiopia-proposed-legal-changes-threaten-civil-society
New Laws, Old Tactics: A Return to Authoritarianism
The recent amendments to Ethiopia’s media law, coupled with the potential overhaul of the civil society law, represent a perilous step backward. These legislative changes are not about strengthening regulatory frameworks; they are about consolidating power and silencing critical voices. The proposed measures will undoubtedly create a chilling effect on freedom of speech and opinion, forcing journalists and civil society actors to engage in self-censorship for fear of retribution.
As Human Rights Watch aptly points out, these actions signal a return to authoritarian practices that undermine the very foundations of a democratic society. The intent is clear: to control the flow of data and suppress any challenge to the government’s authority.
International Concerns and the Imperative for Action
The growing concerns surrounding Ethiopia’s deteriorating human rights situation haven’t gone unnoticed internationally. On World Press Freedom Day in May,a joint statement issued by 14 diplomatic missions underscored the shrinking space for press freedom in the country. https://x.com/AmbafranceET/status/1918561163018649625
Though, expressions of concern are no longer sufficient. Ethiopia’s regional and international partners must adopt a more assertive stance, consistently
