A Critical Reappraisal of Ethiopia’s Approach to National Dialogue: Quest for a Sustainable Peace

Abstract

Abstract

Despite the progress Ethiopia has shown in economic growth and democracy in recent years, the country still faces key challenges including political instability, violations of human rights, and weak institutions. Attempts have been made to resolve the problems both by ballot and bullet but none of them brought about the desired sustainable peace, democracy, and prosperity.  The Ethiopian government recently promised to conduct a national dialogue in order to lift the country out of the cyclical crises. A successful national dialogue could help a country move forward while an unsuccessful one may only exacerbate the situation. This article seeks to contribute to the national dialogue efforts of Ethiopia by identifying the potential threats and opportunities. The study employs the doctrinal research methodology and uses relevant legal, political, and policy frameworks as primary sources of data. In addition, it makes a thorough literature review as a secondary source based on a comparative approach. The article argues that, while Ethiopia’s national dialogue initiative is commendable, a consensus among key stakeholders is swiftly needed on how far, how inclusive, and how substantive the dialogue must be in order for the dialogue to be successful. It reaffirms that, unless the country commits to an inclusive and genuine national dialogue and consensus, the current socioeconomic and political conundrum could exacerbate and have a catastrophic impact on the country and beyond.