Freedom of Expression in Ethiopia: The Jurisprudential Dearth

Abstract

It is almost a decade and half since freedom of expression has been proclaimed as one of the fundamental rights and freedoms recognized in the FDRE Constitution. However, there is hardly any Ethiopian jurisprudence on freedom of expression to speak of at the moment. Although numerous cases (that clearly gave rise to issues implicating freedom of expression) have been entertained in our courts, we have yet to develop a body of standards, tests and doctrines pertaining to the scope, content and legitimate limitations of freedom of expression. This void of constitutional jurisprudence can indeed undermine freedom of expression.