Status and Role of Victims of Crime in the Ethiopian Criminal Justice System

Abstract

This article explores the place and role of victims of crime in the present Ethiopian criminal justice system. It inquiries whether victims, as distinct from mere informants/witnesses, have a legally recognized position and can play significant roles within the criminal process. It examines if there are sufficient legal mechanisms that provide for their treatment and protections. A detour to survey global contemporary issues and emerging trends is also made with a view to bring the issues under consideration in broader perspectives. After a thorough analysis of the existing legal framework in Ethiopia, the article finally concludes that victims currently (1) do not have adequate recognition, (2) have marginal roles, and (3) are without sufficient legal mechanisms which provide for their treatment and protection in the criminal process. Hence, the author recommends for the inclusion into the forthcoming criminal procedure law of provisions that address the special concerns, needs, interests and rights of victims.