Addis Ababa, July 11, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s National Dialogue process has moved closer to its historic conference as the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) begins orientation sessions for participants ahead of the main conference scheduled to commence on July 15, 2026, in Addis Ababa.
The orientation sessions are aimed at preparing participants for the upcoming national consultation by familiarizing them with the dialogue framework, methodologies, responsibilities, discussion procedures, and guiding principles that will shape the process.
The sessions are being conducted based on core principles of inclusiveness, participation, equality, cooperation, mutual respect, and consensus-building, which the Commission identified as essential for meaningful engagement.
Speaking during the orientation program, ENDC Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya said the upcoming conference represents a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s nation-building journey, providing a historic opportunity for Ethiopians to come together, listen to one another, and engage on critical national issues.
He noted that the platform will enable participants to deliberate on matters related to peace, nation-building, human rights, and social development.
Professor Mesfin said the conference will serve as an important platform to address misunderstandings and gaps that have emerged throughout Ethiopia’s political and state-building process through peaceful dialogue and collective problem-solving.
He emphasized that, while unity has played a central role in preserving Ethiopia’s sovereignty and national identity, the readiness to openly discuss longstanding concerns reflects a collective commitment to overcoming challenges through dialogue and consensus.
The Commission has outlined eight major thematic agenda pillars that will serve as the foundation for discussions during the national consultation forum.
The ongoing orientation sessions are expected to ensure participants have a shared understanding of the dialogue’s framework, objectives, and procedures while promoting constructive and respectful engagement.
The National Dialogue Conference is expected to mark a significant step toward building broader consensus, strengthening reconciliation, and advancing peaceful solutions to Ethiopia’s longstanding political and social challenges.