News

Introducing a New Web Portal to promote safety of Journalists in Ethiopia

In today’s climate where press freedom is increasingly crucial, UNESCO and the Editor’s Guild of Ethiopia (EGE) have joined forces to introduce a web portal designed to monitor press freedom in the country. This platform is now accessible in three languages: Amharic, Affan Oromo and English, ensuring broad accessibility across the nation, with plans to add more languages at a later phase. Its primary objectives are to safeguard media workers, uphold press freedom and promote accountability.

9 April 2024

This Web Portal will provide support to media professionals, including safety for women journalists.

Rita BissoonauthDirector of UNESCO Addis Ababa Liaison Office to AU and ECA and UNESCO Representative to Ethiopia

At the heart of this portal is its unwavering focus on the safety of women journalists. Acknowledging the disproportionate risks they encounter, the platform provides immediate support mechanisms for women in the field, demonstrating a commitment not only to press freedom but also to gender equality.

The portal serves as an active support system offering immediate, secure assistance to journalists facing imminent threats. Moreover, it will become a data repository, gathering evidence to reinforce advocacy for increased protection and press freedom.

The launch of aligns with UNESCO’s commitment to press freedom worldwide and contributes to the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.

The launch of sojethiopia.org marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to safeguard press freedom and protect the rights of journalists in Ethiopia.

Frew AbebeBoard Chairperson of EGE

The portal is part of the broader effort to establish and strengthen a robust national mechanism for the safety of journalists in Ethiopia.

Rita BissoonauthDirector of UNESCO Addis Ababa Liaison Office to AU and ECA and UNESCO Representative to Ethiopia

The launch of this portal marks a significant step forward. Journalists have the opportunity to use this tool to report incidents. Advocacy organizations, civil society, and policymakers can leverage these data to create a safer environment for journalists.

The development of this portal was supported by the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) of UNESCO, which promotes media development and free and pluralistic media in developing countries.

For more information about the portal, please contact Aderaw Genetu Tassew, Programme Officer at ag.tassew@unesco.org

Learn more about UNESCO’s IPDC Programme here: UNESCO International Programme for the Development of Communication