Founding Members
Consortium for the Safety of Journalists in Ethiopia (CSoJ) was founded by seven pioneering journalists’ associations, each representing different regions, sectors, and communities of the Ethiopian media landscape. Together, these organizations bring rich experiences, diverse perspectives, and shared determination to protect journalists.
South Ethiopia Journalists Association (SEJA)
Based in Hawassa, SEJA advocates for the rights and safety of journalists working in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region, with a strong focus on promoting independent reporting in Ethiopia’s most diverse region.
Somali Journalists Association (SoJA)
Headquartered in Jigjiga, SoJA serves media professionals in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, where conflict and fragility heighten risks to journalists. It works to defend press freedom and provide direct support to journalists facing threats.
Eastern Ethiopia Journalists Association (EEJA)
Based in Harar, EEJA focuses on strengthening the professional capacity and security of journalists operating across eastern Ethiopia, where access to information and security challenges remain pressing.
Mizan Professional Journalists Association (Mizan)
Based in Addis Ababa, Mizan advocates for professionalism within the Ethiopian media sector, supporting journalists’ professional growth while advancing safety and access to information.
Ethiopian Media Women Association (EMWA)
Headquartered in Addis Ababa, EMWA champions the voices of women journalists, addressing gender-specific challenges such as online harassment, workplace inequality, and gender-based violence. It plays a leading role in integrating gender-sensitive perspectives into Ethiopia’s media sector.
Ethiopian Mass Media Professional Association (EMMPA)
Based in Addis Ababa, EMMPA brings together media practitioners from broadcast, print, and digital platforms, working to safeguard press freedom and promote professional standards across the country.
Editors’ Guild of Ethiopia (EGE)
Headquartered in Addis Ababa, EGE represents editors, the gatekeepers of media content, who often face unique threats to their independence. It is dedicated to promoting ethical journalism, protecting editorial freedom, and strengthening professional solidarity.
Together, these seven founding members form the backbone of CSoJ, standing united in the mission to protect and empower Ethiopia’s journalists.