APPRAISING THE CHALLENGES OF PRACTICING THE RIGHT TO PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE EIA PROCESS IN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This qualitative research appraises the challenges of effectively practicing the right to public participation in the EIA process in Ethiopia, in highlighting inherent gaps from both legal and empirical perspectives. The research employed both descriptive and analytical qualitative study designs, consisting of theoretical and empirical parts. The theoretical part examined the Ethiopian environmental legal and policy frameworks, along with the relevant literature. On the other hand, the empirical part of the research utilized case studies. Documented data and key informants interviews were the principal methods used to gather the data used in the research. The research found that the right to public participation is exercised by interested and affected party (who) for normative, substantive and instrumental rationales (why) at consultation level (what) through different mechanisms (how) such as the public meetings, telephonic surveys, workshops and so on. It also disclosed that the Ethiopian environmental legal and policy frameworks in practicing the right to public participation in the EIA process are not adequate since they are not compatible with international best practice principles of public participation drawn from the literature. Moreover, the research revealed that despite legal and policy provisions guaranteeing public participation, different the legal and empirical factors have been impeding the effective practice of the right to public participation in the EIA context in Ethiopia. These findings have significant implications for policy makers, regulators, and practitioners involved in EIA processes. The conclusion drawn is that by addressing the identified impeding factors and promoting inclusive and genuine practice of the right to public participation; Ethiopia can strengthen its environmental governance and ensure SD.