Based on the Media Proclamation, the Authority is working to develop a diverse and responsible media and advertising sector through effective regulation, capacity building, and partnerships. It is also striving to create favorable conditions that fully guarantee freedom of expression and media freedom, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and international human rights treaties binding on Ethiopia.

The Authority ensures media compliance with the law, provides support for accountability, issues broadcasting licenses, promotes diversity in ownership and content, facilitates stakeholder dialogue, and fosters good relations between media and government bodies.

The Authority registers, licenses, and monitors broadcast, print, and online media. It implements the relevant proclamations, including the Advertising Proclamation, in collaboration with other institutions to prevent and control the spread of hate speech and disinformation. In addition to regulatory functions, the Authority conducts capacity-building activities through research and studies, aiming to enhance sector professionalism, ensure content diversity, and generate evidence-based ideas for media policy.