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Ethiopia Revokes Reuters Journalists' Accreditation

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/14 .. a-revokes-reuters-journalists-accreditation.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 7:25 GMT by ThePrint
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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - February 14th, 2026 - The Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority (EBA) has revoked the accreditation of two Reuters journalists, a move widely condemned by international press freedom advocates and raising serious concerns about the increasingly restrictive media environment in the East African nation. The EBA announced the decision on Thursday, alleging the journalists violated Ethiopia's media law by publishing "false and defamatory information" that undermined the country's security and stability.

While the EBA has yet to publicly detail the specific content deemed problematic, the revocation of accreditation effectively bars the journalists from working within Ethiopia, severely hindering Reuters' ability to report on critical developments in the region. Reuters has expressed "deep disappointment" with the decision and stated it is seeking clarification from Ethiopian authorities, emphasizing the journalists acted professionally and are committed to accurate and fair reporting.

This incident isn't isolated. It is the latest in a series of actions demonstrating a clear trend of escalating restrictions on press freedom within Ethiopia. For years, observers have documented a tightening grip on independent media, characterized by arbitrary detentions, harassment, and legal challenges targeting journalists critical of the government. The pattern suggests a deliberate effort to silence dissenting voices and control the narrative surrounding Ethiopia's internal affairs.

Ethiopia's ranking of 134th out of 180 countries in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, compiled by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), already signaled a precarious situation for journalists. However, experts predict this ranking will likely worsen in subsequent reports, given the continued deterioration of media freedoms. RSF consistently highlights Ethiopia as a country where journalists face significant risks, including legal harassment, intimidation, and physical violence. The organization points to broad and vaguely worded laws - such as provisions related to defamation and "false news" - that are routinely used to stifle critical reporting.

Beyond the direct impact on Reuters and its journalists, the revocation of accreditation has broader implications for transparency and accountability within Ethiopia. An independent and vibrant press is crucial for holding power accountable, informing the public, and fostering open dialogue. By limiting access for international media, the government effectively limits the flow of information, hindering scrutiny of its policies and actions.

The EBA's justification for the revocation - alleging false and defamatory information - is a common tactic employed by governments seeking to suppress legitimate journalism. Critics argue that such accusations are often used as a pretext to silence critical reporting, particularly on sensitive topics like political instability, human rights abuses, and armed conflict. The lack of specific details regarding the alleged violations only exacerbates these concerns, raising suspicions that the decision is politically motivated.

The current climate also impacts local Ethiopian journalists, who already operate under immense pressure. The targeting of international media sends a chilling effect, demonstrating to local reporters the potential consequences of independent reporting. Many Ethiopian journalists self-censor, fearing retribution from the government, leading to a distorted and incomplete picture of events on the ground.

Looking ahead, the situation demands urgent attention from the international community. Press freedom organizations are calling for increased diplomatic pressure on the Ethiopian government to respect the rights of journalists and uphold its constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression. The United States and the European Union, key partners in Ethiopia's development, have a responsibility to advocate for media freedom as an integral component of good governance and sustainable development.

Furthermore, greater investment in supporting independent Ethiopian media outlets is essential. This includes providing financial assistance, technical training, and legal support to help them navigate the increasingly challenging environment. Empowering local journalists to report freely and independently is crucial for ensuring that the Ethiopian public has access to accurate and unbiased information. The revocation of Reuters' journalists' accreditation is not just a setback for the media outlet; it's a worrying sign for the future of press freedom in Ethiopia and a stark reminder of the fragility of independent journalism in an increasingly restrictive world.