Ethiopia: Surge in Arrests of Journalists and Media Workers

Ethiopia: Surge in Arrests of Journalists and Media Workers
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According to a report from Human Rights Watch, there has been a surge in the arbitrary arrests of journalists and media professionals in Ethiopia since August 2025. The human rights organization states that this crackdown is stifling independent voices ahead of anticipated national elections.

The report highlights several specific cases, including the arrest of three journalists from Sheger FM 102.1 and the abduction of a senior editor from The Reporter. Human Rights Watch notes that government threats against journalists have been increasing since early 2025. This latest crackdown follows the approval of amendments to the country’s 2021 media law, which critics argue increases opportunities for political interference.

Human Rights Watch is urging Ethiopian authorities to stop targeting journalists and to release those unjustly detained, stating that a free media is critical for the upcoming elections.