Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 — A significant milestone was marked today as a community dialogue was held at the newly inaugurated Akaki Kality Police Department Plaza in Addis Ababa. More than a routine gathering, the workshop represented the first event hosted at the new facility, with its fresh setting contributing to an energized and engaged atmosphere among participants.
The dialogue brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including refugees from Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, and Yemen, alongside members of the host community. Participants included community policing officers, woreda, ketena, and block leaders, as well as religious leaders, women, youth, elders, and Edir representatives. The inclusive composition of the forum reflected a shared commitment to strengthening social cohesion and peaceful coexistence.
What distinguished this session was the openness and depth of discussion. Participants moved beyond general updates to candidly address pressing challenges affecting their communities. Key issues raised included recurring tensions between refugee youth and house owners or neighbors, occasional group conflicts among young refugees, and the growing concern over irregular migration to third countries. At the same time, participants acknowledged positive developments, such as proactive conflict resolution efforts by refugee parents and increasing expressions of tolerance and support from host community members.
The Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) urban refugee team guided the dialogue with a comprehensive and context-sensitive briefing on refugee legal frameworks, the realities of urban displacement, and the essential elements for fostering peaceful coexistence.
Supported by resource persons from various organizations and community groups, the session emphasized not only information-sharing but also active listening and responsiveness. Concerns raised by participants were directly addressed, transforming sensitive issues into constructive, solution-oriented discussions.
Participants widely welcomed the dialogue and underscored its value in promoting mutual understanding and practical problem-solving. A strong and consistent recommendation emerged to institutionalize such engagements as regular monthly events, ensuring sustained dialogue and collaboration at the community level.
