Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Discussions Explore Possible Changes to National Symbols

July 27, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Participants in Ethiopia’s National Dialogue process have presented alternative proposals on the country’s flag, emblem, national anthem and regional symbols as discussions on nation-building issues continue. The proposals were raised during sub-group consultations on the agenda item of reaching consensus on national symbols and expressions under the broader topic of nation-building. Participants were divided into groups of 10 to discuss the issues before presenting their views to a 50-member consultation group.

Feysal Abdulaziz, who participated in the discussions representing the Political Parties Joint Council, said several ideas were presented regarding the future design and meaning of Ethiopia’s national symbols, including the national flag, emblem and regional flags and anthems. According to Feysal, one proposal supported maintaining the current green, yellow and red flag while changing only the emblem. Other participants suggested retaining the current star emblem and adding symbols representing Ethiopia’s various nations and nationalities, similar to the approach used in some federal systems such as the United States.

Another proposal called for replacing the emblem with a dove, which participants described as a symbol of peace. Feysal said the main area of agreement in his discussion group was that the existing flag colours should remain unchanged, while the emblem should be redesigned in a way that represents all regions of the country. Discussions also covered whether regional flags and anthems should exist. Some participants argued that Ethiopia should have only one national flag, while others proposed that regional flags could maintain the national green, yellow and red colours but use different emblems representing each region.

Regarding the national anthem, Feysal said many participants supported maintaining the existing anthem. However, discussions also addressed the need for regional anthems, with participants emphasising that their content should not promote conflict or hostility. The discussions form part of a wider National Dialogue process focused on seven sub-agendas under nation-building, including issues related to ownership of the state, history and identity, language, managing diversity, and national symbols.

The consultation process involved smaller groups developing proposals before submitting them to larger discussion platforms. The issues discussed at the 50-member group level are expected to proceed to a 250-member consultation group after being documented and approved.

Source: FSX Business News