Analyzing Intellegence Reform in Ethiopia: The Case of Ethiopian National Intelligence and Security Services
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Date
2021-08
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Addis Ababa University,
Abstract
The purpose of this study examines how a series of Ethiopian national Intelligence and Security
Service reforms implemented from 1991 to 2018 contributed to its professionalization. To attain
this objective, the study employed a qualitative research methodology. In-depth interviews and
public document reviews were used to collect primary data. Moreover, for secondary data,
appropriate literature is consulted. The findings of the study revealed that the intelligence
institution has made two reforms from 1991-2018 being forced by the revolution and
professionalization of the institution; the first one was made from 1991-1995 and the second one
was made from 2008-2013 which was made in the form of BPR. It also shows that Ethiopian
National Intelligence and Security Service have faced numerous challenges. The first and
foremost important factor that hampered the effectiveness of the institution was the lukewarm
proclivity to build a politically independent, strong, and people-oriented institution. The study
indicated that despite a series of reforms made to improve the effectiveness of the institution
particularly from 1991 to 2018, no significant improvement was made in relation to the
independence of the institution. In line with this, it asserted that the intention of EPRDF was not
to improve the effectiveness of the institution in ensuring the fundamental rights and security of
citizens, rather making sure to serve as a guardian of the party’s lust for the perpetuation of
power. Moreover, the recruitment criteria prioritized the candidate's loyalty to be hired in the
institution than considering merit-based criteria. Thereby, it is partisanship, not merit that had
been entertained in the institution. Concerning the institution’s problems, the institution did not
hesitate to violate citizens’ fundamental rights if citizens were critical of the ruling party.
Despite its terrible problems, the intelligence institution had success in tackling international
terrorist organizations. To overcome the challenges, the country should establish a politically
independent institution that is more concerned with the welfare of the people than with the
interests of the ruling party.
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Keywords
National intelligence, security, Intelligence service reform, and national intelligence and security service.