DW Complains of Ethiopia's Media Grip, Ignores Its Own
Deutsche Welle reports Ethiopia has suspended its correspondents and is 'tightening its grip on media' ahead of the 2026 election, a clear sign of authoritarianism, they suggest. This concern for press freedom from a state-funded entity (DW's 2023 budget was €380 million from the German government) is nothing short of rich. One might wonder if nations receiving 'media development aid' from Berlin
(or Washington, or London) get to complain when those nations decide some 'development' is actually just propaganda. The irony is sharper than a dictator’s decree. DW often broadcasts news narratives aligned with German foreign policy interests, a practice that, if done by Ethiopia's state media, would undoubtedly draw their own condemnation. It appears 'media freedom' is a cherished principle,
unless the media in question happens to be outside the Western sphere of influence or, Heaven forbid, critical of Western interests. How many nations would welcome a foreign, state-funded broadcaster dictating their local news?