Dialogue Conference Historic Opportunity for National Consensus: ECSOC President

Addis Ababa, July 14, 2026 (ENA) —The National Dialogue Conference set to begin tomorrow presents a historic opportunity to lay the foundation for national consensus by exploring and peacefully resolving long-standing and deep-rooted differences in the country, Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations Council (ECSOC) President, Ahmed Hussein, said.

Speaking to journalists today, the President said the dialogue process has been deeply examining existing differences and establishing a foundation for unity through peaceful engagement.

He noted that the conference would pave the way for mutual understanding and sustainable peace.

According to him, the Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations Council considers the dialogue a valuable chance for addressing differences among Ethiopians through dialogue, fostering mutual understanding, and strengthening sustainable peace, justice, and national unity.

The national dialogue is not intended to serve as a platform to claim victory or defeat, but as a national process through which collective solutions will be sought by discussing shared problems, he added.

The success of the dialogue depends on tolerance, listening, mutual respect, and genuine goodwill.

 

President Ahmed said civil societies have a unique responsibility in the process, including amplifying public voices, ensuring the participation of marginalized and vulnerable groups, strengthening trust among stakeholders, and acting as a bridge to build mutual understanding.

In this respect, civil society organizations have been working collaboratively with the National Dialogue Commission by contributing active participants, facilitators, and observers, while also supporting peace-building efforts and raising awareness across society.

The ECSOC remains committed to ensuring that the dialogue remains independent, inclusive, transparent, and built on mutual trust, he added.

Stressing the need for resolving crucial issues through the process, the President called on dialogue participants to engage with patience, responsibility, mutual respect, and a sense of patriotism.

 

He also urged the public to closely follow the process, provide constructive feedback, and support peaceful discussions.

Furthermore, Ahmed emphasized that the dialogue should be treated as a shared national responsibility requiring ownership from the press, civil societies, government bodies, citizens, and stakeholders.