The author of this article attempts to forward some ideas pertaining to the importance of ensuring common narratives for the peaceful development of this country. Ethiopians, just like any other people across the world harbor diverse views, ideas, opinions and personal narrative. This is certainly natural, common, acceptable and is expected
The notion of developing common narratives generally springs from common needs, interests, values and attitudes that all Ethiopians can cherish. These socio-psychological attributes emanate from the fact that human beings are social and socialized in many ways.
Developing a common national narrative for Ethiopia is crucial for fostering unity, reconciliation, and social cohesion in a diverse and historically complex society like Ethiopia. What does it take to develop and promote common national narrative in Ethiopia? The writer would like to identify some salient features of the means of achieve this.
First of all, it is important to engage in inclusive dialogue and consultation processes involving diverse stakeholders, including government representatives, political parties, civil society organizations, religious leaders, traditional elders, youth groups, women’s associations, and representatives of ethnic communities. Create platforms for open, transparent, and constructive discussions on shared values, aspirations, and challenges facing the nation. This involves learning to listen to each other and respecting ones opinion whether it is right or wrong.
Many of us have hard times listening to each other but focus only on what we want to say. This can end up in misquotations, biases and wrong conclusions.
Second, Acknowledging and addressing historical grievances, injustices, and traumas that have contributed to division and conflict in Ethiopia is an important approach to promoting common narratives. Promoting reconciliation, transitional justice, and dialogue mechanisms to foster healing, understanding, and forgiveness among different ethnic and religious communities is of vital importance to pave the way for establishing common narratives.
Third, emphasizing on the promotion of a unifying national identity that transcends ethnic, religious, regional, or linguistic differences need to be considered. Highlight the common historical, cultural, and linguistic heritage shared by all Ethiopians while respecting and celebrating the country’s diversity.
Fourth, developing shared vision and national development agenda that reflects the aspirations and priorities of all Ethiopians. It is also important to identify common goals, such as poverty reduction, economic development, access to education and healthcare, environmental sustainability, and good governance that can unite people across ethnic, regional, and religious lines.
Fifth, promoting education and awareness programs that foster civic education, critical thinking, and media literacy among citizens are important elements for promoting common national narratives in Ethiopia.. Encourage dialogue on democratic values, citizenship rights, and responsibilities, and the importance of peaceful coexistence and nation-building.
Sixth, Political leaders, opinion makers, and influencers at federal and regional levels have a crucial role to play in promoting a common national narrative and fostering national unity. Lead by example, demonstrate commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusive governance, and refrain from rhetoric or actions that exacerbate ethnic tensions or divisions.
Seventh, celebrating and promoting Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity through festivals, cultural events, and heritage preservation initiatives. Encourage intercultural dialogue, exchange programs, and cultural diplomacy to foster mutual understanding and appreciation among different ethnic groups and communities.
Eighth, empowering and engaging the youth in Ethiopia as agents of change and advocates for national unity and reconciliation. Invest in youth leadership development, education, entrepreneurship, and civic participation to build a generation of Ethiopians committed to building a peaceful and prosperous future for their country.
Ninth, implement community-based projects and initiatives that promote social cohesion, interethnic harmony, and dialogue at the grassroots level. Support peacebuilding efforts, conflict resolution mechanisms, and intercommunal reconciliation processes in areas affected by ethnic tensions or violence.
Tenth, strengthening democratic institutions, rule of law and governance mechanisms to ensure equal rights, justice, and representation for all Ethiopians is equally important to further develop the contents of common national narratives. Addressing systemic inequalities, corruption, and impunity that undermine trust and confidence in the state and contribute to social division which needs to be addressed in the process of developing common national narratives.
By taking these steps and fostering a culture of dialogue, inclusivity, and mutual respect, Ethiopia can develop a common national narrative that promotes unity, reconciliation, and sustainable development for the benefit of all its citizens.
Promoting a common national narrative in Ethiopia faces several significant challenges, given the country’s diverse ethnic, linguistic, religious, and cultural composition. Some of the most outstanding challenges may be mentioned as follows
Ethiopia has a complex history of ethnic tensions, conflicts, and grievances rooted in historical injustices, marginalization, and inequalities. Addressing these deep-seated grievances and historical traumas requires sensitivity, dialogue, and reconciliation efforts to build trust and understanding among different ethnic groups.
Ethiopia’s political landscape is characterized by a fragmented party system, with numerous ethnic-based political parties competing for power and influence. This fragmentation can exacerbate ethnic divisions and hinder efforts to develop a common national narrative based on shared values and aspirations. These parties seem to be active only when elections are conducted but had continued to issue waves of press releases many of which have continuously accuse the government on issues that are caused by other groupings that labor from dawn to dusk to take power by military means.
Ethiopia’s media environment is highly polarized along ethnic and political lines, with many outlets serving as mouthpieces for particular ethnic or political interests. Biased reporting, hate speech, and disinformation contribute to social divisions and undermine efforts to foster a common national narrative. This is particularly true of social media outlets that are busy discrediting government development programs and conducting defamation campaigns on the ENDF.
Moreover, over the last six years some western commercial media outlets like the BBC, VOA and CNN have continued to deliberately broadcast unverified news stories about the country without caring to verify from the government. In fact their imbalanced reporting has helped to further increase media polarization in the country.
Economic inequalities between regions, urban and rural areas, and different ethnic communities exacerbate social tensions and undermine efforts to promote national unity. Addressing disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and services is essential for building a cohesive and inclusive society.
BY SOLOMON DIBABA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 26 APRIL 2024
