CSOs, Religious Institutions Discuss Agenda Inputs for Nat'l Dialogue Conference

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2026 —The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) held a consultative meeting with religious institutions and civic society organizations (CSOs) to collect inputs for agendas of the forthcoming national dialogue conference.

During the discussion today, Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya briefed the participants on  the main activities of the commission, achievements, and the challenges encountered as well as  and the role of religious institutions and civic organizations.

 The Chief Commissioner said the participation of communities from the Woreda levels upward shows the inclusiveness of the dialogue process.

 According to him, fundamental discussions where the public demonstrated ownership were held to resolve long-standing differences of opinion and disagreements.

He disclosed that 93 percent of the Woredas in the country have taken part in the dialogue.

In this process, Professor Mesfin said the role of religious institutions and civic society organizations was significant.

Ethiopian Civic Society Organizations Council (ECSOC) President, Ahmed Hussein, stressed the significance of national dialogue for national consensus.

Sustainable peace comes not only through political platforms but also through inclusive and peaceful dialogue that involve everyone, he added.

He affirmed that CSOs will continue to play their roles to ensure the success of the dialogue.

 Representatives of religious institutions and civic society organizations are expected to submit feedback on the commission’s proposed agenda items for the National Dialogue Conference.