The impact of Ethiopian anti-terrorism law on human rights defenders: A difficult balancing act?

This paper analyses the ongoing debate about national security and the protection of human rights (liberty) in general, but with a specific emphasis on impacts of Ethiopian anti-terrorism law on the rights and work of human rights defenders. The research explores the link between law and the situation of HRDs from the perspective of human rights and legal approach. In assessing these the study approaches qualitative research method. Data from primary and secondary sources are used. Data collection methods such as interview, focus group discussion and observation have been employed. Human rights defenders are subjected to several marginalization. HRDs face challenges because of their commitment to strive for the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms incorporated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In doing so, numerous actors have been involved in endangering their life, rights and work. The study reveals that Ethiopia’s counter terrorism law has significantly undermined the rights of HRDs and affected their work. Moreover, the findings show that counter terrorism laws in the country have gradually eroded fundamental human rights enshrined in the country’s constitution and international human rights treaties signed by the country.