Government says it is “concerned by reports of attacks on the ability of the media and academia to operate freely, including the arrests and detentions of journalists and controls on the ability of the media and academics to report on developments in Ethiopia.”
James Duddridge MP
Minister for Africa
King Charles Street
London
SW1A 2AH
Tel: 0207 008 5000
Lord Alton of Liverpool
House of Lords
London
SW1A 0AA
12 February 2021
Dear Lord Alton,
Thank you for your correspondence of 22 December about academic freedom in
Ethiopia. I am replying as the Minister for Africa.
We are concerned by reports of attacks on the ability of the media and academia to
operate freely, including the arrests and detentions of journalists and controls on the
ability of the media and academics to report on developments in Ethiopia.
Freedom of expression and a free media are both essential in a democracy, essential
for protecting human rights and delivering accountability. Academic research is also
vital, providing us with a more detailed understanding of the unfolding events in the
country.
As you know, we have consistently raised the importance of a free discourse – I did so
as long ago as July when I last visited. The Foreign Secretary raised the importance of
respect for human rights and political freedoms when he met with Prime Minister Abiy
during his visit to the country on 22 January, and we will continue to champion open and
free political expression in the run up to the June 5 elections.
James Duddridge MP
Minister for Africa
