By: staff editor
Resorting to force and violence to solve problems is a surefire path to disaster. History has shown us time and again that such approaches only lead to destruction, suffering, and long-lasting scars. Instead, principled dialogue stands as the cornerstone of lasting understanding, offering a way to bridge differences and foster unity. Especially when it comes to addressing issues that concern the nation and its people, sitting down to talk in a calm, respectful, and principled manner is not just an option—it is a necessity. Such dialogue is an irreplaceable tool for achieving enduring peace, development, and prosperity.
Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a profound social value that must be cultivated within individuals, families, communities, and nations. It is like a delicate seed that requires careful nurturing, constant protection, and collective responsibility. Peace enables the realization of universal human aspirations—freedom, dignity, and progress. It is a shared responsibility that demands the attention and commitment of all.
The pursuit of peace is not the sole duty of governments, specific groups, or communities. It is a challenge that touches the daily lives of every individual and has the power to shape the destiny of nations and the world. The consequences of neglecting peace are far-reaching, often passing down through generations and leaving behind environmental, social, and economic costs that are difficult to bear.
As we reflect on the years of relative peace the world has experienced, we must also remember the devastating wars that have tested humanity. Beyond the two World Wars, countless conflicts—each with its own name and justification—have caused immense suffering and loss. These events serve as stark reminders of the fragility of peace and the importance of safeguarding it.
Ethiopia, too, has a history marked by both heroic struggles for justice and freedom and painful internal conflicts. These conflicts have left deep scars, resulting in unnecessary human and material losses. Once celebrated for its rich civilizations, Ethiopia has faced periods of poverty and backwardness, a stark contrast to its glorious past. While its history is filled with inspiring stories of resilience, it has also endured harsh periods of division and servitude.
A significant part of the challenge lies in our political culture, which has often prioritized confrontation over dialogue. The mindset of "winning at all costs" has repeatedly led to division and stagnation. Instead of resolving differences through calm discussion and negotiation, we have allowed time to slip away, leaving future generations to grapple with the consequences. If we do not abandon this outdated approach, the problems we face today will inevitably become even greater challenges tomorrow.
Our long history of state-building and the current realities we face highlight the shortcomings of a political culture rooted in the "winner-loser" narrative. This mindset has not only robbed generations of their dreams but has also prevented visionary leaders from realizing their potential. It has trapped us in a cycle where each generation is unable to fully embrace its own time and shape its own destiny. Instead, we are burdened by the past, unable to move forward and forced to deal with problems we did not create.
Despite the efforts of many to address these national challenges, the persistence of radical ideologies has hindered progress. These ideologies not only threaten the stability of the state but also divide our people, turning them into pawns in a dangerous game of political gambling. This division undermines the unity that has held our nation together through centuries of trials and triumphs.
It is time to say enough. Enough of the outdated ideas that pit us against one another. Enough of the ideologies that threaten the very existence of our state and risk leaving our people stateless. We must embrace a new way of thinking—one that prioritizes peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and mutual respect. This is not just a political responsibility; it is a moral and historical duty that falls on every citizen.
As we look to the future, let us remember that peace is not a gift but a choice. It is a choice we must make every day, through our words, actions, and commitment to understanding one another. Only then can we hope to build a nation that is truly united, prosperous, and at peace with itself.