An Investigation of Ethiopian Journalists’ Ethical Practices with Respect to Their Own Editorial Policies: Broadcast Media Journalists in Focus

Constructing arguments on the level of journalism ethics violations by identifying the main factors influences journalists to work against their professional interest, and evaluating editorial policy documents and editorial meeting were the basic objectives achieved. Methodological wise, both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. About 117 journalists were involved. There are significant, if not critical, media ethics violations by Ethiopian broadcast media journalists. Both in cash and in kind journalist collect benefits from news sources and news makers. In return, they offer positive and success story coverage. Government and media have symbiotic relationships, but in Ethiopia, it is more than that- government officials influence the media. Public official pressures, amateurism and burden of living cost are main factor influence journalists to act unethically. The media editorial policies are not clear and accessible. Media fired and punish in fine “unethical” journalists.