Freedom of the Mass Media and Access to
Information Proclamation No. 590/2008
PROCLAMATION NO. 590/2008.
A PROCLAMATION TO PROVIDE FOR FREEDOM OF THE MASS MEDIA AND ACCESS
TO INFORMATION
WHEREAS, the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, guarantee
freedom of expression and of the mass media ;
Noting that, by prohibiting censorship, the Constitution promotes a free mass media;
Reaffirming the constitutional principle that restrictions on freedom of expression and of the
mass media shall only be based on laws which secure and preserve the wellbeing of the
youth, honour and reputation of persons ,national security , public order and other
overriding rights;
Cognizant of the necessity of preserving and consolidating past achievements and positive
practices pertaining to freedom of expression while removing structural and institutional
impediments that hinder the independent operation of the mass media and the free
exchange of information and ideas
Aware that a free, independent and diverse mass media with high ethical standards and
professional competence plays an indispensable role in the national endeavour to build
democratic order in Ethiopia;
Recalling the role of the mass media in ensuring respect for the fundamental rights and
freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, and in promoting peace, democracy, equality and
justice;
Recognizing the right of the media to collect and disseminate information, including of a
critical nature; realizing that an independent mass media that serves as a public forum for
uninhibited democratic dialogue thrives on a viable freedom of information system that
facilitates the free flaw of information and ideas among citizens by enabling them to
exercise their right to seek, receive and impart information and opinions freely;
Affirming the fundamental importance, in a democracy, transparent conduct of government
affairs and, in particular, the right of individuals to access information held by public bodies;
Determined to promote and consolidate the values of transparency and accountability in the
conduct of public affairs, as guaranteed by the Constitution, and to impose a legal obligation