AMN Plus-June 26, 2026
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has officially unveiled eight major agendas that will guide discussions during the upcoming National Dialogue Conference.
The agendas were identified through an inclusive, transparent, and systematic process designed to capture the views, concerns, aspirations, and priorities of Ethiopians from across the country.
Speaking at the agenda presentation ceremony, Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya stated that the selected agendas reflect the most pressing issues raised during the nationwide agenda-gathering process and are intended to serve as the foundation for meaningful national dialogue.
The eight key agendas and their thematic focus areas are:
1. Nation Building
Discussions will focus on identity, history, shared national values, the management of diversity, and language policy.
2. State Structure and Form of Government
Key issues include the right to self-determination, the definition of nations, nationalities and peoples, tenure limits, boundary questions, the electoral system, and the multiparty political framework.
3. Federal Cities
Dialogue will address the legal status, administrative boundaries, working languages, resource-sharing arrangements, and governance representation of Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa.
4. Religious Affairs
Topics include freedom of religion, the balance between secularism and religious practice, the reconciliation of historical grievances, and the interaction of coexistence among different religions.
5. Institution Building, Rule of Law, and Human Rights
Discussions will examine the independence and impartiality of democratic, judicial, and security institutions, as well as the rights and concerns of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and members of the Ethiopian diaspora.
6. Social, Economic, and Farmers’ and Pastoralists’ Issues
This agenda covers land ownership, resource distribution, women’s concerns, access to agricultural inputs, and development policies that support the livelihoods and way of life of pastoralist communities.
7. Corruption and Good Governance
Participants will deliberate on strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms, promoting accountability, and establishing a fair, merit-based public service system.
8. Peacebuilding
Key areas include national security, conflicts and armed groups, transitional justice, and the strengthening of indigenous and traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms.
Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya emphasized that the success of the National Dialogue process depends on the constructive participation of all Ethiopians. The Professor called on citizens from all walks of life to actively engage in the upcoming National Dialogue Conference and contribute to shaping a shared national future.
By Birhanu Workneh
