Inequalities Between Ethnic Groups, Conflict, and Political Organizations

Abstract

We highlight that ethnic conflicts are typically about ‘nationality problems’ of self-rule, and thus best understood as ethno-nationalist conflicts that are driven by political and economic inequalities between groups. Recent, large-scale data collection and analysis find systematic evidence for such a link, but what is needed is a firmer understanding of the precise causal mechanisms, including ethnic mobilization processes through political organizations. We articulate a research project along these lines.