Workshop on "The Upcoming National Dialogue: Prospects and Challenges"

Prominent historians presented discussion papers outlining the historical context informing the nature and applicability of meaningful political settlements in the country. Policy makers, renowned researchers and representatives of the community collectively assessed the overall implications of historical contestations on the planned dialogue and reconciliation process.

Presentations and the ensuing discussions underscored the importance of dissociating the value of history as a means to justify the power-identity claims of political elites from the scientific construct of the country’s past. It was underlined that these dynamics have fully unraveled in current conflict cycles, including in northern Ethiopia and Oromia. Deciphering the very nature as well as implications of this trend, therefore, remains critical.