Center for Federalism Studies

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Browsing Center for Federalism Studies by Subject "and enforcement lapses in professional conduct"

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    The Implementation of the Right to Defense Counsel in Ethiopia: A Case Study at the FDRE Federal Public Defense Office
    (Addis Ababa University, 2025-04-01) Shewarega Woldemariam; Tsehay Wada (Ass.Prof)
    This study is on implementation of right to defense counsel in the context of Ethiopia. I applied a qualitative research which applied doctrinal and non doctrinal approach. The research also used primary data based on data from interviews and questionnaires. Based on the findings the legal foundation for the public defenders office are article 20 of the FDRE constitution and the FSC Establishment proclamation No. 1234/2021. The office has formed offices in Addis Ababa and three Regional offices in which it employs over 74 public Defenders and 25 other staff. While legal practitioners understand the right to counsel, but many accused individuals are unaware. While the PDO is considered accessible by legal professionals, non-legal individuals express concerns regarding its accessibility and effectiveness. Further Public defenders view their services as efficient, but clients and some legal professionals express differing opinions. Overall stakeholders recognize the vital role of public defenders but highlight the need for capacitybuilding, professional development, and express concerns over ethical issues related to payment for services. Major challenges include a lack of comprehensive legal framework, limited resources, a lack of independence from the FSC, and enforcement lapses in professional conduct. To enhance the PDO's effectiveness, recommendations include establishing a comprehensive legal framework, restructuring institutional operations, and ensuring equitable salaries for public defenders. Implementing these changes is crucial for fulfilling the mission of the PDO and serving the public interest effectively