Ethno-Federalism and Subnational Conflicts in Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Ethiopia is unique in its extreme version of ethno-federalism as it constitutionally grants unconditional rights of self-determination and secession to all ethnic communities. The defacto practices of power in governing multiple contesting groups, however, creates regime priorities. The post-2018 politics generated violent opportunities to make viable claims on control, representation, and authority. Further, conflicts at the local, regional and national level increased because of the new regime’s need to co-opt and placate subnational elites. This suggests that ethno-federal systems incentivize distinct, co-occurring forms of political violence. Such a system provides the context for violence, but regime politics provides the spark.