Media Authority, Inter-Religious Council Sign MoU to Prevent Hate Speech, Misinformation

Addis Ababa, June 16, 2026 (ENA) — The Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA) and the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia (IRCE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that enables them to work together to prevent misinformation and hate speech transmitted by various religious media institutions.

The MoU was signed between Ethiopian Media Authority Director-General Haymanot Zeleke and Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia Secretary-General Kesis Tagai Tadele.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, EMA Director-General Haymanot said 51 religious-based media institutions are operational in the country.

The contents of these institutions need to focus on unity and collaboration among peoples in the respective religions. 

Unlike most of the religious media, however, few disseminate hate speech and false information, she revealed, adding that the signed agreement will help to prevent misinformation and hate speech.

For his part, IRCE Secretary-General, Kesis Tagai Tadele, said contents of the religious media should abide by the Constitution and contribute toward ensuring peace and togetherness among the people.  

In this regard, he noted that the MoU would significantly help to prevent the dissemination of hate speech and fabricated news released by some religious media.

Capacity building and awareness creation will be jointly conducted by the institutions, it was learned.