The article discusses the ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia, particularly focusing on the clashes over the country's national identity and the violence in regions such as Oromia and Tigray. Global Voices conducted two periods of research to analyze the patterns within Ethiopia’s media ecosystem, with a focus on issues of national and ethnic identity and the Tigray conflict. The assassination of Oromo singer Hachalu Hundessa and the subsequent internet shutdown, as well as opposition to the Tigray conflict, were highlighted as significant events. The research, which was qualitative in nature, observed the shifting narratives in Ethiopian media, the media's dependence on government authority, the influence of the Ethiopian diaspora, and rapid narrative changes regarding the Tigray conflict. The data set included 336 media items from over 170 sources, and the study identified 47 themes and 59 narrative frames.

Ethnic tensions between Ethiopia's Oromia and Somali regions have escalated into violent conflict, displacing thousands and resulting in numerous deaths. Historical grievances, resource scarcity, and political maneuvering have fueled the violence. The Ethiopian Federal Government and the ruling coalition, EPRDF, are criticized for exacerbating the conflict. The paramilitary group Polizia Liyou is accused of severe human rights violations. Regional leaders Lemma Megersa and Abdi Mohamud Omar have called for stability but disagree on the conflict's causes. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing violence and polarized rhetoric on social media.

The assassination of Oromo musician Hachalu Hundessa on June 29 in Addis Ababa sparked widespread violence and disinformation campaigns, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Conspiracy theories and hate speech exacerbated ethnic tensions between the Amhara and Oromo communities. Various narratives emerged, including accusations against government authorities and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The Oromia Media Network and Tigray Media House played significant roles in spreading these claims. The Ethiopian government posits that opposition groups TPLF and OLF-Shane were behind the murder. The incident has highlighted deep-seated ethnic and political divisions in Ethiopia, with significant implications for national security and social cohesion.

Heads of states from several eastern African countries gathered in Addis Ababa to celebrate the opening of Unity Park, a project initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The park's opening sparked polarized reactions along ethnic lines, particularly between Amhara and Oromo groups. Prominent figures like Jawar Mohammed and Eskinder Nega use social media to galvanize support, often leading to inflammatory rhetoric and communal violence. The article highlights the role of social media in exacerbating ethnic tensions and the influence of nationalistic narratives in music videos.

Ethiopia's political landscape is experiencing significant shifts as Abadula Gemeda, the speaker of the Ethiopian parliament, resigns citing disrespect towards the Oromo people. This move is seen by some as a sign of the growing influence of the Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO) within the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Front (EPRDF) coalition. The Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which has dominated Ethiopian politics for 25 years, appears to be losing its grip. The resignation has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a significant step towards ending TPLF dominance, while others see it as mere propaganda. The political tension is further underscored by the resignation of Bereket Simon, an adviser to the prime minister, shortly after Abadula's departure.

Ethnic tensions between Ethiopia's Oromia and Somali regions have escalated into violent conflict, resulting in dozens of deaths and the displacement of thousands. The conflict, rooted in historical territorial disputes and resource scarcity, has been exacerbated by accusations of government manipulation and paramilitary violence. The Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) is criticized for its role in stoking tensions, while regional leaders Abdi Mohamud Omar and Lemma Megersa call for stability but disagree on the conflict's root causes. The situation remains volatile, with polarized rhetoric further complicating resolution efforts.

The Oromos, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, initiated a five-day strike in Oromia to demand the release of political prisoners and protest against the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF). The strike, led by the youth movement Qeerroo, saw widespread participation, with businesses closed and public transport halted. The protest also addresses issues like unjust tax hikes and human rights violations by the Liyou Police. Despite the peaceful intent, there are concerns about potential violence and the need for a unified protest message. The impact of the protest remains uncertain.

The Ethiopian Council of Ministers has proposed a bill addressing social services, language, education, and culture between Addis Ababa and Oromia. The bill aims to legislate the 'Special Interest' provisions of the constitution, incorporating Oromo identity into Addis Ababa and addressing land ownership and healthcare services. The proposal has sparked debate, with supporters arguing it redresses historical injustices against the Oromo people, while critics claim it disenfranchises Addis Ababa residents and exacerbates ethnic tensions. The bill is expected to pass soon, despite its contentious nature.

Yemi Hailemariam, a British woman of Ethiopian descent, ran as a fringe candidate against Theresa May in the UK's parliamentary election to highlight the plight of her husband, Andargachew Tsege, who was kidnapped by Ethiopian security officials and faces a death sentence. Despite receiving few votes, Yemi's campaign successfully brought attention to her cause. The article criticizes the British government for ignoring Tsege's situation and highlights the ongoing political repression in Ethiopia, including the state of emergency and crackdown on opposition leaders.

In Ethiopia, pervasive government surveillance creates a climate of fear, leading to self-censorship among citizens. The government monitors communications, blocks critical websites, employs surveillance software, and prosecutes individuals for their online activities. The author, a victim of such surveillance, translated the Surveillance Self-Defense guide into Amharic to empower Ethiopians with knowledge to protect their privacy. Despite challenges such as a lack of standardized technology terms in Amharic, the translation aims to confront state surveillance and promote digital safety practices.