Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Marks Major Milestone with Inclusive Approach: ENDC

Addis ababa: Ethiopian National Dialogue (END) Chief Commissioner, Professor Mesfin Araya, has declared a significant milestone with the initiation of an inclusive national dialogue that aims to establish a culture of consultation throughout the country.According to Ethiopian News Agency, Chief Commissioner Mesfin highlighted the progress made by the commission since its inception three years ago. He emphasized that a major achievement has been the commencement of dialogue among Ethiopians, bringing people from both central and peripheral regions together on equal terms. This development marks a departure from historical political exclusion, particularly for those outside the central highland areas.The dialogue process has enabled participation from traditionally marginalized groups, such as pastoralist women from the Afar and Somali regions, and residents from the remote southern area of Salamago. Professor Mesfin stressed the importance of this inclusive approach for Ethiopia's national survival, noting that it is not simply a matter of political correctness.He outlined that the final phase of the dialogue will convene 4,000 representatives at a national conference to deliberate on crucial issues and work towards consensus. In cases where consensus is unattainable, the matters may be subjected to nationwide resolutions, including referenda or deferral to future generations.Professor Mesfin urged for a continued commitment to dialogue, encouraging stakeholders to set aside weapons and engage in discussions vital for national peace and progress. He emphasized that Ethiopia's rich diversity, encompassing over 80 nations, nationalities, and peoples, provides a unique opportunity to blend traditional conflict-resolution practices with modern dialogue techniques under the commission's neutral facilitation.The ENDC's approach is notably bottom-up, involving pastoralists, farmers, artisans, and ordinary citizens alongside political elites and government representatives. The inclusive nature of the dialogue ext ends to marginalized groups, women, persons with disabilities, and others, allowing open expression without reservation. The commission's neutrality is maintained through non-interference from the government.Inclusivity remains a fundamental aspect of the dialogue, with the ENDC having reached 1,234 Woredas nationwide, except for some areas in the Tigray region. The commission plans to address these gaps before the national plenary convenes.