May 12, 2022 (ADAMA, Ethiopia): The Mediation Support Unit held a 3-day experience sharing workshop in support of Inter-Party Dialogue Mechanisms. The workshop was held in Adama Ethiopia from 10 – 12 May 2022. This workshop convened representatives of the inter-party dialogue mechanisms/structures, civil society, research & think-tanks, governance experts and representatives from regional economic communities such as ECOWAS. The workshop provided a platform for participants to exchange experiences, knowledge and insights on Inter-Party dialogue processes as well as create interface between the Inter-Party political parties’ structures and the selected regional intergovernmental organizations
Countries throughout Africa have varying inter-party mechanisms/structures and models, which are utilized for the furtherance of good governance, democracy and electoral processes. Comparative knowledge sharing on Inter-Party political dialogue process provides an opportunity to share key unique insights into the processes and the models of inter-political-party dialogue initiatives.
Inter-Party dialogues and electoral processes are closely related. During the 3-day workshop, the participants deliberated on these close linkages. It was outlined that the various forms of dialogues including those linked to electoral cycles, and others whose mandate is broader including ongoing mediation and dialogue activities. The participants also deliberated on the vital role dialogue plays in all the stages/phases of conflicts, particularly in the IGAD region.
This workshop was conducted with the financial support of the European Union through the IGAD Promoting Peace and Stability in the Horn of Africa (IPPSHAR) Programme, & with the implementing partner Austrian Development Agency (ADA).
