Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned the Ethiopian government’s decision to suspend three prominent human rights organizations: the Center for the Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD), the Association for Human Rights in Ethiopia (AHRE), and Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR).
The government’s move, which comes amid a period of heightened political tension and ongoing conflicts, has been criticized as a severe blow to civil liberties and human rights advocacy in the country.
HRW argues that the government’s actions are part of a broader crackdown on dissent and independent voices.
The suspended organizations have been vocal critics of the government’s human rights record, particularly regarding the conflict in the Tigray region.
The government’s decision to amend the media law, which would grant the prime minister’s office greater control over media operations, further underscores its intent to tighten its grip on information and public discourse.
The international community has expressed concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Ethiopia. HRW has called on governments and international organizations to exert pressure on the Ethiopian government to reverse its decision and respect fundamental freedoms.