The objective of the research was to identify the threats that impede adherence to professional ethics among selected Authorized Accountants and Authorized Auditors in Ethiopia. The pillars of ethical values rest on integrity, objectivity, professional competence and due care, confidentiality and professional behavior. Observance of these pillars of ethics was evaluated in light of threats and safeguards. The research approach employed for the study was mixed research augmented with simple

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... stical analysis. Respondent Authorized Accountants and Authorized Auditors were selected using snowballing technique. The data collected from the subjects of the study was validated by triangulation. Bankers and Tax Auditors were identified as principal users of the financial reports and thus used to validate the data. Key informants interview with persons having close ties with the profession was conducted to enrich the data. The findings indicate that there are lapses in the observance of professional ethics. The lapses in upholding ethical values are traced to intimidation, work environment, legislative environment, integrity, familiarity, professional competence and due care and self-interest. The recently promulgated legal provision for the adoption of IFRS as accounting standard in Ethiopia is a milestone in the traverses of the profession filling the gaps in the legal and professional environment. On the bright side, there are high hopes and expectations from the newly established Accounting and Audit Board of Ethiopia towards regulating and monitoring the profession. The migration to the new reporting and regulatory system requires a concerted effort from the professionals. Rules by themselves are not ends but means towards the desired goal. Principles rather than rules would make a difference towards ethical professionals. Key words: professional ethics, threats, to professional ethics, safeguards to professional ethics Ethiopia