In a world frequently marked by political upheaval and conflict, national dialogues have emerged as vital tools for inclusive peacebuilding. Mariia Levchenko, a peacebuilding expert, recently shed light on the evolution, significance, and future of these dialogues, offering both historical context and personal reflections.

Mariia Levchenko highlights national dialogues as powerful tools for peaceful conflict resolution and political transitions. These structured, inclusive platforms unite governments, civil society, marginalized groups, and international actors, creating space for voices that are often unheard. While modern examples like South Africa, Yemen, and Tunisia brought global attention to such processes, their roots lie in indigenous traditions of community dialogue.

Levchenko emphasizes that the process matters more than the outcome. Dialogues foster legitimacy, shared understanding, and trust, essential for lasting peace. The 2022 national dialogue in Chad illustrates key lessons: the importance of local ownership and genuine inclusivity, especially of women, youth, and rural communities. International involvement should support, not dominate.

In Ukraine, internal dialogues are helping communities rebuild amid war. However, dialogue with Russia remains unlikely without a ceasefire. Future peace will require thoughtful, inclusive approaches shaped by Ukrainians themselves—with justice, healing, and sustainability at the core.