Addis Ababa, August 19, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s ongoing National Dialogue Conference is creating a platform for citizens with diverse perspectives to find common ground and pursue shared solutions, participants said, describing the process as a pathway toward sustainable peace and development.
The National Dialogue Conference, which began on July 15 at the Addis International Convention Center, has brought together 4,000 participants from Ethiopia and abroad for in-depth discussions on eight major agenda items.
Participants told ENA that the conference is helping establish a culture of consensus in which ideas, rather than differences, form the basis for addressing national issues, while creating conditions for outcomes that benefit all sides.
Agaredech Jemaneh, one of the participants, said the conference has brought together citizens with diverse views for what she described as a civilized and historic national consultation.
Despite differences in perspectives, she said, Ethiopians can reach common understanding and develop joint solutions. Expanding the practice of dialogue, she added, could serve as a bridge toward building a consensus-based Ethiopia, with recommendations shaped through effective listening, consultation and mutual understanding.
Another participant, Fatuma Yimam, said the conference has enabled inclusive and participatory discussions by organizing participants into groups of 10, 50, 250 and 500.
She said the structured approach gives participants opportunities to freely present their views, consult with one another and develop solutions grounded in mutual understanding.
Abdi Kedir, another participant, emphasized the role of the conference in creating opportunities for citizens to listen to and understand one another.
Recalling challenges Ethiopia has faced in the past, he said the country had paid a heavy price when opportunities for consultation and dialogue were limited.
The National Dialogue Conference is now helping build common consensus through democratic processes, he said, expressing confidence that the dialogue will make a significant contribution to national unity, peace and sustainable development.