A recent Statement by the National Security Council underscored on the urgency and importance of conducting national dialogue sessions across the country and the implementation of Transitional Justice Policy to ensure peace, justice and development in the country.
National dialogue processes should be inclusive, involving diverse stakeholders such as government representatives, political parties, civic society organizations, ethnic and religious leaders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and representatives of marginalized communities. Ensuring the meaningful participation of all segments of society is essential for building consensus and legitimacy.
On the other hand, transitional justice mechanisms, such as truth commissions, can play a vital role in uncovering past human rights abuses, documenting historical injustices, and promoting accountability and reconciliation. Establishing an independent and impartial truth commission can provide a platform for victims to share their experiences, seek redress, and contribute to the healing process.
Transitional justice processes should prioritize accountability for past human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and arbitrary detention. Holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their political or ethnic affiliations, is essential for restoring trust in state institutions and upholding the rule of law.
Victims of human rights abuses should be provided with reparations and redress, including compensation, rehabilitation, and measures to address the long-term impact of violations on individuals and communities. Ensuring meaningful reparations can contribute to healing, reconciliation, and the restoration of dignity for victims and survivors.
Moreover, national dialogue processes should identify areas for legal and institutional reforms to address structural issues that have contributed to past human rights abuses and social divisions. Reforming laws, policies, and institutions related to governance, security sector reform, land tenure, and access to justice can help prevent future conflicts and promote social cohesion.
National dialogue should also include cultural and historical dimensions, acknowledging the diverse cultural heritage and historical narratives of Ethiopia’s different ethnic groups and communities. Promoting dialogue and understanding among different ethnic and religious communities can help bridge divides and promote a shared national identity based on mutual respect and recognition.
Engaging young people in national dialogue and transitional justice processes is essential for promoting intergenerational dialogue, addressing the needs and aspirations of youth, and building a more inclusive and sustainable future. Youth participation can bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and energy to reconciliation efforts.
Ethiopia may benefit from international support and collaboration in its national dialogue and transitional justice efforts. Drawing on international best practices, expertise, and technical assistance can strengthen the effectiveness and legitimacy of transitional justice mechanisms and promote accountability for past human rights abuses.
Overall, national dialogue and transitional justice are essential components of Ethiopia’s transition towards peace, democracy, and social cohesion. By addressing past injustices, promoting reconciliation, and building consensus among diverse stakeholders, Ethiopia can lay the foundation for a more just, inclusive, and resilient society.
A recent Statement issued by the National Security Council is more revealing. It stated that “In her long history of statehood, Ethiopia lacked the experience of settling political differences, disagreements and conflicts in a legal and peaceful manner through discussions and dialogues. Unfortunately, our politics hinges on zero sum situation. In our country, our political culture has been based on the desires of the powers that have assumed political power by force and continued to enforce their will through absolute control of everything at their disposal until they are forced out of political power.”
The statement further added that “Peaceful political transition is not an end in itself but a means to ensure other overarching political goals. The challenges that the country is facing cannot be resolved only through corrective measures that are on the pathway. We have therefore tabled three pathways that would enable us to rectify our historical shortfalls. Resolving past political challenges through inclusive national dialogue and our political challenges from the recent past through convocation of transitional justice is important”.
Ethiopia has a complex history marked by political repression, ethnic tensions, and human rights abuses. National dialogue provides a platform for addressing historical grievances, acknowledging past injustices, and promoting reconciliation among different ethnic and political groups.
In addition, Ethiopia is a diverse country with over 80 ethnic groups, each with its own language, culture, and identity. National dialogue can help promote social cohesion by fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse communities and building a shared national identity based on mutual respect and recognition.
The country is undergoing a transition towards democracy, marked by political reforms and efforts to strengthen democratic institutions. National dialogue can contribute to this process by promoting inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in governance and decision-making processes.
Addressing the root causes of past conflicts and grievances is essential for preventing future violence and instability. Transitional justice mechanisms such as truth commissions and accountability measures can help address impunity, promote rule of law, and build trust in state institutions.
National dialogue provides an opportunity for victims and perpetrators of human rights abuses to come together, share their experiences, and seek reconciliation. By promoting dialogue and understanding, transitional justice processes can help heal wounds, build trust, and foster reconciliation among different segments of society.
Transitional justice mechanisms contribute to strengthening the rule of law by holding perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable and promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. This helps build confidence in the justice system and promotes a culture of accountability and respect for human rights.
A stable and peaceful society is essential for sustainable development and economic growth. National dialogue and transitional justice contribute to creating an enabling environment for investment, development, and poverty reduction by addressing social divisions and promoting social cohesion.
Overall, national dialogue and transitional justice are critical for Ethiopia’s transition towards peace, democracy, and inclusive development. By addressing past injustices, promoting reconciliation, and building trust among diverse communities, Ethiopia can build a more just, inclusive, and resilient society for future generations.
Editor’s Note: The views entertained in this article do not necessarily reflect the stance of The Ethiopian Herald
BY SOLOMON DIBABA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 2 MAY 2024
