Dear YouTube Team,

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about recent actions taken against Ethiopian Amhara media channels, specifically targeting platforms such as Ethio 360, Addis Dimts and Baro Tube. We are writing to express our concern regarding the unjustified and repeated blocking of Ethio 360 media on your platform, which amounts to a breach of the principles of freedom of expression and fairness.

Ethiopian Amhara media outlets have been instrumental in amplifying the voices of the voiceless and addressing the plight of individuals within a country that has been grappling with restrictive press laws. It is disheartening to note that platforms like Ethio 360 media  have faced censorship on YouTube numerous times, totaling twelve occurrences. Such excessive blocking stifles the dissemination of information and restricts the crucial role that these outlets play in raising awareness about issues in Ethiopia.

We understand the need for platforms to enforce community guidelines and content policies. However, we urge YouTube to ensure that these actions are taken fairly and transparently, with proper consideration given to the context of the content and the larger goal of promoting free expression. The media outlets in question have contributed to open dialogue, information sharing, and democratic discourse within Ethiopia, and their voices deserve to be heard without undue hindrance.

We, the signatories of this petition, request the following:

1.An immediate review of the repeated blocking and suspension of Ethiopian Amhara media channels, including Ethio 360, Addis Dimts, Baro Tube, to ensure that such actions are warranted and proportionate

2. Transparency in the decision-making process for enforcing content policies and community guidelines, with clear communication to content creators about any violations and necessary corrective actions.

3  Collaboration between YouTube and the affected media outlets to establish a constructive dialogue aimed at resolving any misunderstandings and preventing future unjustified suspensions.

4. A commitment to upholding freedom of expression on your platform, particularly in regions with restrictive press laws, so that individuals and groups can freely express their views and share information without fear of censorship.

By taking these steps, YouTube can demonstrate its commitment to fostering a global online environment that values diversity of thought, open discourse, and the right to express opinions without undue censorship. We hope that you will consider our concerns seriously and take prompt action to address the issues raised in this petition.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We look forward to a positive response and a more equitable approach to content moderation on your platform.

CC - Social Media Federal Communications Commission of USA 

Sincerely,

Wondwossen Teklu Woldhan (Journalist) in Collaboration with Gasha Media