ENDC set to conclude on October 24
ADDIS ABABA —October 24, 2026
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has reaffirmed that the culture of resolving differences through peaceful dialogue must continue beyond the conclusion of the Commission’s mandate, as it reflects on the milestones achieved throughout its tenure.
Speaking during a press briefing on the conclusion of the Commission’s working period, Chief Commissioner Prof. Mesfin Araya said the national dialogue process has contributed to nurturing a culture in which differences of opinion can be addressed through peaceful discussion, mutual understanding and consensus-building.
According to the Chief Commissioner, one of the most significant achievements of the process has been creating an opportunity for Ethiopians from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to sit together, articulate their concerns and differences, and seek common ground through dialogue rather than confrontation.
He emphasized that the conclusion of the Commission’s mandate should not be understood as the end of the national dialogue initiative. Rather, the experience and culture developed through the process should continue to guide the country in addressing differences and resolving outstanding issues peacefully.
Implementation Takes Centre Stage
Looking ahead, Prof. Mesfin identified the implementation of the recommendations emerging from the national dialogue as a critical next step.He noted that the House of Peoples’ Representatives will play a central role in developing an implementation strategy for the recommendations, providing a framework through which the outcomes of the dialogue can be translated into concrete actions.
The Commission has consolidated the recommendations generated through the national dialogue process and formally submitted them to the relevant national institutions. The recommendations cover fundamental issues identified through extensive consultations and deliberations conducted during the national dialogue plenary.
A Mandate Concludes, a National Initiative Continues
The Commission’s legal working period is set to conclude on 24 October 2026. However, a limited secretariat function will remain operational for few months to undertake necessary documentation, archival and other administrative activities associated with the conclusion of the Commission’s work.
Over the course of its mandate, the Commission undertook extensive consultations and a nationwide dialogue process involving citizens and stakeholders from diverse sections of society. The process culminated in a national dialogue conference that brought together thousands of participants representing different social, political and institutional constituencies.Reflecting on the journey, Prof. Mesfin acknowledged that the process was made possible through the contributions of Ethiopians and people of Ethiopian origin, as well as the support and cooperation of numerous national and international partners.
He expressed appreciation to local and international partners, civil society organizations, professional associations, development partners, experts, media organizations, facilitators, rapporteurs, volunteers and others who contributed to the process at different stages.
The Chief Commissioner also recognized the collective effort of those who supported the Commission in creating platforms for citizens to express their concerns, deliberate on national issues and contribute to identifying areas of consensus.
As the Commission approaches the end of its mandate, the national dialogue process leaves behind not only a body of recommendations, but also an institutional experience in peaceful deliberation and consensus-building.
