National Dialogue Lays Foundation to Resolve Differences Through Consultation: Deputy Commissioner

Addis Ababa, August 22, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has successfully laid a historic foundation to resolve deep-seated grievances and political differences through dialogue rather than force, Deputy Chief Commissioner Hirut Gebre Selassie announced. 

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Dialogue Conference today at the Convention Center, Hirut stated that the event opens a new chapter in Ethiopia's political and social history. 

"We have opened a new historical chapter that enables us to solve deep-rooted disagreements, historical fractures, and differences of opinion through civilized consultation rather than by force and guns," Hirut said.

 

The conference brought together 4,000 delegates representing diverse segments of society across the nation, including political parties, civil society, government bodies, prominent personalities, former combatants, and the diaspora.

Delegates engaged in extensive deliberations centered on eight major thematic agendas aimed at creating a stable and prosperous future for the country. 

Hirut emphasized that while discussions involved sharp differences of opinion, the true success of the process lies in the delegates' ability to listen to one another, uphold mutual respect, and seek shared solutions. 

"The greatest achievement is not merely the compiled set of recommendations, but the fact that we have laid the foundation for a culture of resolving differences through dialogue," she added. 

The Commission expressed confidence that the resulting recommendations will be implemented by the government and relevant stakeholders to guide Ethiopia toward a peaceful and inclusive future.

 

 The plenary session marked the conclusion of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference, which took place on August 22, 2026, at the Addis Ababa International Convention Center in Addis Ababa.

The closing ceremony capped 40 days of continuous deliberations aimed at addressing key national issues. The conference convened 4,000 delegates representing diverse societal sectors, political organizations, institutions, government bodies, prominent figures, former combatants, and the diaspora.

Discussions throughout the 40-day event focused on eight core agenda areas: nation-building; state structure, governance, and political and electoral systems; special administrative affairs regarding Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa; and religious affairs, historical grievances, and national reconciliation.

 

Furthermore, the delegates engaged in deliberations covering institutional building, the rule of law, and human rights; socio-economic affairs, including issues impacting farmers and pastoralists; anti-corruption measures and good governance; as well as peacebuilding and national conflict resolution.