Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission Engages Diaspora in North America Agenda-collection Forum

August 22, 2025-Addis Ababa

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has announced preparations for an upcoming agenda collection forum and representative elections in the United States and Canada, aimed at strengthening diaspora participation in the national dialogue process.

According to the Commission’s spokesperson, Mr. Tibebu Tadesse, the North America dialogue forum is scheduled to begin on August 30 (Nehase 24, 2017 E.C.). Registration has already opened, with many Ethiopians in the diaspora expressing interest in presenting agendas, engaging, and cooperating in the forum.

Mr. Tibebu highlighted that Ethiopian diaspora living across North America can participate fully through both online platforms and in-person sessions, with flexible registration options provided by the Commission. He emphasized that those outside the host cities and regions will also be able to take part in the process.

In line with its commitment to inclusivity, the Commission has also created conditions for citizens under legal custody to participate in the dialogue. Mr. Tibebu confirmed that, following requests from the Commission, the Ministry of Justice and federal detention centers have agreed to allow detainees and individuals undergoing judicial processes to take part in the dialogue process.

Technical preparations are ongoing to ensure smooth implementation in collaboration with federal detention centers. Additionally, discussions are underway to extend this initiative to include detainees in regional detention facilities.

The spokesperson underlined that these measures reflect the Commission’s determination to ensure a broad, representative, and constructive dialogue that engages all sectors of society.