Exploring Safeguards of Privacy Right in the Digital Age: How to Regulate Invisible Intrusion in Ethiopia?

Abstract

Everyone has some aspect of their personal life that should not be exposed involuntarily.
Respect for privacy enhances personhood and dignity. Despite the immense significance of
privacy, the extent of interference in private life has been increasing on account of emerging
sophisticated surveillance technologies. It is not uncommon to notice surveillance cameras on
streets, public and private places in Addis Ababa. Most often, the public does not know who
is watching and the modalities of surveillance. On top of this, the images are stored and can
be used for undesired purposes thereby encroaching on privacy rights. This article examines
the possible threat posed by video surveillance cameras and assesses the adequacy of the
existing legal framework in Ethiopia. To do so the article applies a mixed research
methodology. Video surveillance rules developed elsewhere in the globe and literature in the
field are analyzed through doctrinal research methodology. Foreign codes of conduct, theories,
and experiences would be a good lesson in designing the Ethiopian video surveillance code of
conduct. Finally, the article recommends for the adoption of a strong regulatory framework
for video surveillance that aligns with international standards and best practices.