Reciprocal Journalism in the Mediated Public Sphere: Examining Op-Ed Debate in Ethiopian Media

This article examines reciprocal journalism practices in Ethiopian newspaper op-ed sections during the 2018 reform period. Using public sphere theory as a lens, the article explores the interactional dimension through two key aspects: inter-op-ed reciprocity (dialogue across op-eds) and op-ed-editorial interplay (alignment between them), drawing on all op-eds and editorials related to the reform agenda across five leading publications. The analysis reveals a notable absence of reciprocal journalism within the op-ed sections of these Ethiopian newspapers during that period. Specifically, interaction between op-eds mainly occurs outside the outlets via references to unspecified media, speeches, interviews or events, rather than through intra-outlet debates. This lack of reciprocity weakens the practice of reciprocal journalism and diverges from the intended role of newspaper op-ed sections as dynamic public forums. Moreover, the polarized pro- and anti-reform debates further reflect fragmentation rather than inclusivity, undermining Habermas’s fundamental principle of a public sphere in which rational-critical discourse among diverse viewpoints is essential for fostering inclusive public opinion rather than polarized echo chambers. This deficiency in reciprocal engagement also compromises the role of newspaper op-ed sections as vibrant public forums and conflicts with the ideals of effective reciprocal journalism.