The intent behind the national dialogue is commendable. At its core, it seeks to address the root causes of conflict, rebuild trust among Ethiopia’s diverse communities, and create a platform for open discussion. For a country that has seen cycles of violence and political polarization, this effort—if genuinely executed—could be transformative.
However, progress has been mixed. While the government has made formal commitments to the dialogue process, there are questions about transparency and inclusivity. Critics argue that some key opposition voices and civil society groups have been sidelined or are participating only under pressure. For a process meant to foster national consensus, this raises serious concerns.
Public participation is another critical challenge. In many regions, citizens remain skeptical about the process, either due to lack of information or distrust in political elites. Without grassroots engagement, the dialogue risks becoming a top-down exercise with limited legitimacy. The organizers must prioritize civic education, open communication, and regional representation if they wish to build public confidence.
Opposition involvement is also uneven. While some parties have joined the process, others remain cautious or outright resistant, citing concerns about fairness and political repression. True dialogue requires not just the presence of dissenting voices but also their freedom to speak without fear of reprisal.
In summary, Ethiopia’s national dialogue is a necessary and overdue initiative—but its success depends on more than good intentions. It requires courage from all sides: the government must open space for dissent and criticism; opposition groups must engage constructively; and the public must be given a real stake in shaping the country’s future.
Reconciliation is not a destination but a journey. Ethiopia has taken the first steps, but whether the path leads to lasting peace will depend on what comes next.