The Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) recently announced a significant hike in passport fees, a move that has been met with widespread criticism for its timing and its potential infringement on citizens’ rights, particularly the right to freedom of movement.
The amendments, which came into effect on August 7, 2024, have raised the cost of obtaining and renewing a passport to 5,000 Birr (approximately $50). For those requiring expedited service, the fee has surged to 20,000 Birr (about $200). Corrections to old passports or replacements for lost passports now cost up to 40,500 Birr (approximately $400). For Ethiopians living abroad, the fee for a regular passport has increased to $200, with expedited service within 15 days costing $350.
These amendments have sparked concerns among legal experts and human rights advocates, who argue that the increases are excessive and disproportionately affect low-income citizens. Ketema Adane, a legal expert and Partner at Ethio-Alliance Advocates LLP, stated that the new fees could restrict citizens’ ability to exercise their right to freedom of movement, a right enshrined in both Ethiopian law and international treaties ratified by the country.
“The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) emphasizes that freedom of movement is a fundamental human right,” Ketema said. “By imposing such high fees, the Ethiopian government is effectively creating barriers to this right, particularly for low-income individuals who may now be unable to afford a passport.”
Ketema further explained that the increase could prevent citizens from participating in essential activities such as pursuing education abroad, seeking employment opportunities, or engaging in international cooperation and discussions. “This amendment has the potential to exclude citizens from global governance and decision-making processes,” he added.
The Ethiopian Constitution, under Article 13, sub-article 2, and Article 9, sub-article 4, requires that human rights be interpreted in accordance with international documents and principles. The current fee structure, according to Ketema, does not align with these obligations and could be seen as a violation of the citizens’ rights.
Gosa Demse, Deputy Director General of ICS, defended the fee increase, citing the rising costs of producing passports and the shift towards e-passports, which necessitates higher expenditures. “The foreign currency required to import the materials for passports has tripled, making the fee increase necessary,” Gosa explained.
Despite the government’s justification, the new fees have been met with alarm by many Ethiopians, who view the increases as a significant financial burden, particularly in a country where the average income is relatively low. Critics argue that the government should have considered the economic realities of its citizens before implementing such a steep increase.
