The Ethiopian Constitution and the Immigration Proclamation provide persons who are detained with robust procedural safeguards. These safeguards are designed to ensure the protection of their fundamental rights during detention, aligning with international human rights standards. One of these key safeguards is for detainees to be informed promptly and in a language, they understand of the reasons for their arrest and any charges against them. This is crucial for ensuring that the detained individual understands the nature of the allegations against them and can prepare an appropriate defense. In addition, article 61 of the Criminal Procedure Code explicitly states that a person detained on arrest or remand shall be allowed to contact and consult with an advocate immediately. Also, individuals arrested have the right to remain silent and must be informed promptly that any statement they make could be used against them in court. This protects against self-incrimination. The requirement to bring a detained person before a court within 48 hours (excluding the time needed for travel to the court) is a critical safeguard against unlawful or prolonged detention without judicial oversight.

The Constitution affirms the right of arrested persons to be released on bail, providing a mechanism for temporary release while awaiting trial or further legal proceedings. The law explicitly prohibits compelling a person to confess or make admissions that could be used against them in court, and evidence obtained under coercion is not admissible. Detained individuals have the inalienable right to petition a court for their physical release if they are not brought before a court within the prescribed time frame, ensuring accountability and recourse against unlawful detention.

Courts have the authority to determine whether to keep an individual in custody or remand them for further investigation, with a stipulation that this period should be strictly necessary for the investigation. This is balanced with the right to a speedy trial and the investigation must respect the rights of the detained individual.

These provisions collectively ensure that persons, including refugees, detained in Ethiopia are afforded minimum procedural safeguards that are essential for the protection of their rights. These safeguards reflect a commitment to the rule of law and human rights, providing a framework for the humane and lawful treatment of detainees.