Media Associations Unite to Officially Launch Consortium for Safety of Journalists in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa: The Ethiopian media landscape witnessed a historic consolidation this week with the official launch of the Consortium for Safety of Journalists in Ethiopia (CSoJ) at the Elilly International Hotel. The establishment of the coalition, following its inaugural General Assembly, marks a unified front dedicated to protecting journalists and upholding press freedom across the nation.
The launch was the culmination of a day that began with the CSoJ’s first General Assembly convention. The Assembly, chaired by Yeshewa Masresha, took decisive action to broaden the coalition’s representation by approving the membership applications of three key associations: the Amhara Journalists Association, the Ethiopian Journalist Persons with Disabilities Association, and the Oromia Journalists Association. This move significantly expands the coalition’s national reach and inclusivity.
Chairperson Yeshewa Masresha hailed the successful convention, stating, “This gathering solidifies our collective resolve to create a safer environment for all media professionals in Ethiopia. I thank every member for their vigorous participation in forging the strategic path forward for our coalition.”
The momentum continued into a formal reception, attended by a wide array of civil society organizations, media representatives, partner institutions, scholars, and stakeholders. The event served as the official public debut of the CSoJ. During the proceedings, Consortium members unanimously acknowledged the foundational role played by the Editors’ Guild of Ethiopia (EGE) in successfully hosting the nascent body and ensuring its operational visibility and legal standing and the unwavering support from IMS.
The critical need for such a coalition was underscored by attendees. Abdissa Zerai (Assistant Professor at Addis Ababa University School of Journalism) stressed the importance of the formation. “The creation of this coalition is essential to consolidate the various efforts to protect journalists across Ethiopia and to avoid duplication of work,” he said. “This is especially critical at a time when the global media ecosystem is facing profound threats, and a coordinated, national response is our strongest defense.”
The launch followed the successful execution of a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) program, implemented by EGE with support from IMS, FCDO and Norad, on the safety of journalists. Focusing on journalists from conflict affected regions, the training, covering physical, legal, digital, and mental well-being, provided immediate, practical tools for journalists’ protection – a mission the CSoJ is now formally mandated to advance.
With its expanded membership and formal launch, CSoJ is poised to become the central coordinating body for advocacy, support, and strategy in promoting journalist safety and professional integrity throughout Ethiopia.
