Dialogue Commission Extends Agenda Collection to Diaspora Communities

Addis Ababa, August 13, 2025 (FMC) – The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has urged Ethiopian diaspora communities worldwide to prepare and submit proposals that address the country’s most pressing challenges, as part of its ongoing effort to foster national reconciliation and lasting peace.

Chief Commissioner Prof. Mesfin Araya announced that the Commission will soon begin gathering agendas from Ethiopian communities abroad, complementing the agenda collection already completed in 11 regions, including the Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa city administrations. He confirmed that initial steps have also been taken to initiate the process in the Tigray Region.

Political parties in Tigray have welcomed the Commission’s August 1, 2025 visit to Mekelle as a meaningful step toward peace. During the visit, the ENDC held discussions with multiple political groups, all of which expressed strong support for launching the dialogue in the region.

According to Prof. Mesfin, consultations with diaspora communities will be conducted in a hybrid format—primarily online to reduce time and financial constraints, but also through targeted in-person sessions. Discussions have already been held with Ethiopian communities in several African countries. Upcoming engagements include a session in Pretoria, South Africa, and in-person consultations in Washington, D.C., from August 23–31, followed by sessions in Toronto, London, and Stockholm. Agendas gathered will be reviewed by the Commission Council before moving forward.

The Chief Commissioner emphasized that the national dialogue will be inclusive, impartial, and anchored in the Ethiopian constitution. Approximately 4,000 agendas are expected to be reviewed, with those gaining broad consensus forwarded to the executive body for implementation under the Commission’s oversight.

Prof. Mesfin encouraged diaspora members to actively engage in the process, seek clarifications on complex issues, and submit well-considered proposals that serve the national interest. Submissions can be made through the Commission’s website, email, telephone, or via relatives and friends in Ethiopia.

The ENDC’s mandate is to create conditions conducive to national consensus by identifying the root causes of division through research and public dialogue, and by presenting recommendations to relevant authorities. Since its establishment, the Commission has undertaken extensive outreach to ensure all segments of society—domestic and abroad—have a voice in shaping Ethiopia’s future.

Prof. Mesfin reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to moving forward efficiently, ensuring broad and equitable participation, and delivering results within the shortest possible timeframe without compromising inclusivity or transparency.