Reflections on Media Freedom in Pre and Post Political Reforms in Ethiopia Practitioners’ Perspective

Abstract

Media freedom is crucial for the growth of democracy, particularly in developing nations where democracy is still in its infancy. Ethiopia has recognized media freedom in the constitution, as well as other press proclamations that had been amended at various periods. The country has ratified international media laws to such an end. There is evidence, however, that Ethiopia's media right to free expression has been violated on several occasions. Therefore, this study assessed the status of media in the pre and post-reform period (after the coming of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali to power in 2018) as reflected by the practitioners. We held one-on-one in-depth interviews with twelve purposively selected media practitioners working for both government and privately-owned media based on their experience of doing journalism in Ethiopia. The views of media practitioners were qualitatively analyzed. The study's findings demonstrated that in the post-reform period, some of the obstacles that existed prior to the reform were changed, and media freedom was better safeguarded in relative terms3. The study recommends that media professionals should work within the present legislativeframework, which, while imperfect, should not make their relationship with the government inimical.