As Ethiopia embarks on its historic National Dialogue to foster unity, reconciliation, and a share national vision, the role of scholars has become more critical than before. Beyond politics and partisanship, the intellectual community stands as a reservoir of knowledge, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the country’s multifaceted social fabric.
Accordingly, their participation and contribution are pivotal to ensuring that the dialogue is not only inclusive but also intellectually grounded, forward-looking, and sustainable.
Understandably, Ethiopian scholars, both at home and in the diaspora, carry with them the intellectual heritage and historical understanding essential for contextualizing present challenges. Their insights help unpack Ethiopia’s complex historical narratives, cultural diversities, and socio-political dynamics. This historical grounding is crucial in a dialogue process that seeks to reconcile differences, correct misconceptions, and pave the way for mutual understanding.
Academics in history, sociology, political science, law, and conflict studies play a crucial role in bringing evidence-based analysis to the table, bridging past and present to inform better decisions. They help frame questions and debates within a context of empirical evidence rather than emotional rhetoric—making the process more objective and inclusive.
Their work allows for informed decision-making by framing questions and debates within a solid empirical foundation, reducing reliance on emotional rhetoric and promoting inclusive, well-rounded discussions. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a deeper comprehension of societal challenges and guides more effective, sustainable solutions.
Recently, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has stressed the importance of inclusivity highlighting scholars’ key role in ensuring marginalized voices—particularly from pastoralist regions, women, youth, and minorities—are not only heard but amplified with sensitivity and depth. Through community-based research and participatory models, scholars are uniquely positioned to serve as mediators and facilitators who translate complex realities into actionable recommendations.
During his recent discussion with Ethiopian teachers, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) reiterated that the government’s doors remain open to all who seek to resolve problems through dialogue and who believe they possess better solutions for the sake of peace in Ethiopia. He acknowledged that differing interests among various groups can lead to both satisfaction and discontent, stressing the critical need for open communication to bridge these divides.
“In Ethiopia’s history, no government has ever suggested resolving issues through dialogue,” stated Prime Minister Abiy. He emphasized that the very first national consultation in the nation’s history has taken place under the current Prosperity Party government, marking a pivotal shift in governance.
The Prime Minister outlined his government’s commitment to tackling long-standing challenges through a comprehensive approach, encompassing five key frameworks. This strategy includes an inclusive national consultation, which he underscored as unprecedented in Ethiopian history. The other pillars of this initiative are transitional justice, the reintegration of armed groups into society through rehabilitation, multi-sector economic reform, and institutional reform.
So far, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) is actively creating an inclusive platform for scholars to directly present their ideas and contribute to the ongoing nationwide conciliation process.
This initiative underscores the ENDC’s commitment to ensuring a broad range of perspectives are incorporated in shaping Ethiopia’s future.
As part of this effort, the Commission is currently hosting a forum that facilitates in-depth discussions between scholars and commissioners, which are focusing on crucial aspects of the dialogue process, including strategies for resource mobilization and ways to enhance scholarly engagement in the development of the country’s dialogue framework.
ENDC Commissioner Melaku Woldemariam, among other commissioners and scholars, participated in this forum.
In his keynote address, Commissioner Melaku emphasized that inclusive dialogue is paramount for identifying and resolving the root causes of conflict.
According to him, the ultimate goal of the Commission is to achieve mutually beneficial “win-win” solutions for all Ethiopians.
Commissioner Melaku also provided an update on the ENDC’s progress, noting that the Commission’s establishment and operationalization are well underway, with several key activities already in motion.
He particularly stressed the critical role scholars can play in contributing to the success of the national consultation and; in helping Ethiopia achieve meaningful and lasting outcomes.
The Commissioner also urged scholars to participate actively, stating, “Like any citizen concerned about the future of their country, scholars should actively engage in the consultation process.”
Reaffirming the ENDC’s dedication to facilitating scholars’ participation, Commissioner Melaku noted that this engagement goes beyond public forums.
The Commission’s commitment to facilitating scholar participation, not only through public forums and agenda-gathering platforms but also by establishing direct channels for them to present their insights and proposals to the Commission.
Beyond diagnosis, the scholars’ role is solution-oriented. Ethiopia’s path toward national consensus and constitutional reform requires rigorous legal, economic, and governance frameworks. Scholars contribute by crafting policy options, conflict resolution models, and institutional reforms grounded in both theory and practical realities. Their peer-reviewed studies, white papers, and policy briefs can inform not only the Dialogue Commission but also the broader public debate.
What is more, with polarization and disinformation posing threats to constructive dialogue, scholars also serve as watchdogs for the truth. Their academic rigor and ethical commitment to facts and evidence can help counteract false narratives and promote balanced discourse. In this way, scholars serve as guardians of the dialogue’s integrity.
By fostering a culture of critical debate and constructive disagreement, they can model how national conversations should proceed—respectful, evidence-based, and forward-looking.
Moreover, the National Dialogue offers a valuable opportunity to bridge the often-perceived gap between academia and policy-making. To maximize this potential, the government, civil society, and the Dialogue Commission must proactively create platforms where scholars’ input is systematically integrated into the decision-making process. Funding independent research, commissioning expert studies, and inviting academic representatives into strategic discussions are necessary steps.
In sum, Ethiopia’s National Dialogue is not just a political process—it is an intellectual journey toward shared nationhood. Scholars, with their research, experience, and civic responsibility, must be at the forefront of this transformative moment. Their contribution can elevate the dialogue from mere negotiation to genuine nation-building—where knowledge, wisdom, and empathy converge for the betterment of all Ethiopians. For a brighter, unified future, the voice of the scholar must resonate loudly and clearly within Ethiopia’s democratic discourse.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 21 JUNE 2025
