Abstract
In this essay, I argue that the current conflict in Ethiopia is the result of the adoption of an ethnic federal system in the 1990s. Though there are certainly more proximate causes, the effects of the system of ethnic federalism are critical in understanding the nature of the conflict that threatens to destabilize the entire Horn of Africa region. First, ethnic federalism has framed the fundamental political debate in the country, which has been reduced to questions about the balance of power between the ethnically based regions and the central state. Secondly, ethnic federalism has led to ethnification of identity in Ethiopia's population at large.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
