Addis Ababa, September 1, 2026 (FMC) — President Taye Atske-Selassie has called on Ethiopia’s religious institutions to strengthen their role in protecting young people from harmful external influences and social trends while reinforcing the country’s moral values, unity and social cohesion.
The President made the call at the opening of the 15th founding anniversary and 18th regular general assembly of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, describing the gathering as an important forum for reflecting on Ethiopia’s history, its unity and shared national aspirations.
He said the country’s foundation has been shaped by successive generations through their ideas, labor and faith, adding that respect for human dignity, religious values, diversity and unity remain important elements of Ethiopia’s social fabric.
President Taye said religious institutions have long played a central role in shaping public morality and character and therefore carry a particular responsibility in guiding society through periods of rapid change.
He urged religious leaders to intensify efforts to educate young people and help protect them from imported ideologies and transient trends that could undermine Ethiopia’s cultural and moral values.
The President called on religious institutions to actively challenge practices that erode social trust and human dignity, including deceit, falsehood, theft, corruption, cruelty and indifference to human life. He also encouraged religious leaders to help those pursuing destructive paths redirect their lives toward constructive citizenship.
He described religious leaders as important sources of guidance during periods of division and uncertainty, emphasizing their role in advancing dialogue, unity, forgiveness and reconciliation.
President Taye welcomed the active participation of religious leaders in Ethiopia’s recent National Dialogue process, saying their engagement has contributed to efforts to promote stability, truth and lasting peace.
He stressed that the contribution of religious institutions to national development extends beyond political engagement, describing their role in social and moral development as essential to building a stable and progressive society in an increasingly modern world.
The President reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the contribution of religious institutions to sustainable peace, social cohesion and national development.