The Role of Civic and Religious Organizations Is Key to the Success of the National Dialogue” — Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya

December 02, 2025

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission held a consultative meeting with representatives of religious institutions and civic organizations under the theme “The Active Role of Civic Organizations for the Success of the National Dialogue Process.” The meeting took place at Capital Hotel, Addis Ababa.

Opening the session, Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya emphasized the significant role that civic and religious institutions play in ensuring the success of the national dialogue. He acknowledged the longstanding efforts of these institutions in supporting the Commission’s work and underscored their unique credibility and influence within communities.

Professor Mesfin urged these institutions to actively contribute to resolving existing challenges by leveraging their trust and outreach. He called upon them to encourage major stakeholders in the Tigray region to participate in the dialogue process and to help bring political actors and armed groups who have not yet joined the process to the dialogue table so that their perspectives and agenda items can be included.

During the meeting, participants discussed the key challenges faced by the Commission, potential solutions, and the critical contributions religious and civic organizations can make to strengthen and advance the national dialogue.