Ethiopia
Freedom of the Mass Media and Access to Information Proclamation No. 590/2008
Transparency Score: 73/100
RTI Rating: 110 (source)
Response Timeline
30 days from receipt of request. Extension of up to 30 additional days permitted if request requires extensive search or consultation. Requester must be notified of extension.
How to Submit a Request
Accepted Methods
Submit written request to public body. Request must include applicant details, description of information, and preferred form of access. Part of broader media freedom law enacted 2008.
Required Elements
- Applicant name and contact details
- Description of information sought
- Preferred form of access (inspection, copy, etc.)
Fees
Access to information is free. Reproduction costs may be charged at rates determined by regulation. Costs may be reduced or waived if applicant cannot afford them or if disclosure is in public interest.
Fee Waivers
- Costs waived if applicant cannot afford them
- Costs waived if disclosure is in public interest
Exemptions
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National Defense and SecurityInformation affecting national defense and security
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International RelationsInformation affecting international relations
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Law EnforcementInformation relating to investigation and enforcement
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Commercial InformationCommercial and financial information of third parties
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Personal PrivacyPersonal information and privacy
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Legal PrivilegeInformation protected by legal privilege
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Cabinet DocumentsCabinet documents and policy deliberations
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Fair TrialInformation undermining fair trial rights
All exemptions subject to public interest override test. Information must be disclosed if public interest in disclosure outweighs harm to protected interest. Burden of proof on public body to justify refusal.
Appeal Process
Internal Complaint to Head of Public Body
File complaint with head of public body within 30 days.
Ethiopian Institution of the Ombudsman
Complaint to Ombudsman if internal appeal fails. Ombudsman investigates and makes recommendations.
Courts
Judicial review available if dissatisfied with Ombudsman decision.
Three-tier system: internal complaint, Ethiopian Institution of the Ombudsman, judicial review. Ombudsman serves as oversight body but lacks binding enforcement powers (recommendations only).