Ethnic Conflict Research Articles

Military Agricultural Reclamation: Strategic Land-Use Change to Remake Unruly Desert Borders

This article outlines the social, political, and environmental conditions under which states engage in strategic agricultural development along desert borders and what these developments achieve for the state. We focus on how national governments employ state-led agricultural reclamation, expansion, or intensification in deserts to produce and territorialize borders and discuss how these projects fall short. We apply theories of state power and legibility to analyze three military agricultural sites on the China–Kazakhstan, Egypt–Sudan, and Israel–Egypt–Gaza borders, each of which exemplifies strategic desert borderland agricultural development. These sites have geopolitical significance due to their history of territorial disputes, potential for ethnic conflict, and access to strategically important natural resources. By drawing on commonalities between these sites, we find that these developments achieve multiple goals for states, including demarcating territorial boundaries, increasing legibility of peripheral borderlands, and demonstrating control over difficult terrains. We also outline how these projects fall short of totally remaking borderlands due to social, political, and environmental limitations.

Ethnic cosmopolitanism, cultural identity and conflict dynamics in the Kusaug Traditional Area of Northern Ghana

ABSTRACT This study investigates the perceptions of ethnicity and their impact on conflict dynamics and cultural identity with the aim of proposing a pathway towards the building of an ethnic cosmopolitan worldview for peaceful coexistence. The research adopted a qualitative methodological approach with interviews and focus group discussions involving 50 purposively sampled participants from the Kusaasi, Mamprusi, Mossi, Busanga, and Hausa ethnic groups resident in the Kusaug Traditional Area of northern-eastern Ghana. Participants recognize the possibility of developing a cosmopolitan worldview that respects divergent identities and values but also acknowledge the challenges and complexities involved. The study argues that the development of ethnic cosmopolitanism that integrates all the core values of the differentiated ethnic groups in Kusaug holds the potential to de-escalate conflicts and to promote peaceful coexistence. Public sensitization, education, and awareness programmes are recommended to promote tolerance, respect, and appreciation of unity in diversity.

INDIA: UNDERSTANDING THE HILLS-VALLEY DIVIDE AND MEITEI-KUKI CONFLICT IN MANIPUR

This paper explores the notion of the hills-valley divide in Manipur, focusing on the divide between Meitei people and hill tribes and its consequences on ethnic conflict. It examines the hills-valley divide through secondary data such as articles, news reports, and talks. The Meiteis, the largest community, enjoy power in all aspects of life. Due to poor representation in the Legislative Assembly, tribals have a lesser voice in decision-making. Moreover, since funds are allocated by population size, dwellers have a natural advantage over hill people. The existing hills valley divide and development inequality lead to misunderstanding between the tribals and the non-tribals in Manipur. The tribals of Manipur came up with different demands for developing their respective areas and safeguarding their identity. However, their demands were never fulfilled by the Meitei-led Manipur government. The state government tried to change the law to alienate tribal land in a very well-planned manner. This creates inter-ethnic tensions, and tribal political problems have remained unresolved. This paper suggests that the state must for mulate policies for Manipur’s moral and emotional integration by proportionately diversifying developmental infrastructure. Keywords: Manipur, hills-valley divide, buffer zone, ethnic clash, violence.

Navigating Informal Peace Education Programs in Iraq: Challenges, Progress, and Pathways Forward

Iraq has a long history of social unrest, sectarian violence, and ethnic conflict. Various Iraqi governments have used the education system to push their political goals, worsening these internal conflicts. After these difficult times, there is a strong need to create real peace through major changes in education. However, because of Iraq’s violent and divided past, achieving lasting peace through education is a tough challenge. This study looks at Iraq, including the Kurdistan Regional Government, and their efforts to reform the education system since 2003. Despite these efforts, one crucial element is missing: the deliberate inclusion of peace studies in the curriculum. Using a qualitative approach, this research explores Iraq’s attempts to integrate peace education programs into the higher education system. It explains both the strategies used and the challenges faced in implementing peace education. Additionally, this paper highlights possible ways for Iraq to advance peace education at all levels, from primary schools to universities.

Conflict and communication in everyday life: An exploration of intercommunity conflict in Assam, India

AbstractEthnic conflicts have proved to be inherently dangerous and repressive across the globe. While this signification cannot be negated, a deeper articulation of liminal existences in the conflict‐prone areas requires more attention. Using case studies with a qualitative research design, the paper emphasizes on conflict as a social force, facilitating the (re)structuration of communities entangled within it. The paper explores the mundane lived experiences of the Adivasis and the Bodos, two of the ethnic communities living in Assam, a Northeastern state of India, by making a few claims. First, ethnic conflicts reorient social relations, intercommunity interactions and economic exchanges between the Adivasis and Bodos. Second, ethnic conflicts recourse varied negotiations and emotions in their being(ness), aspirational values, and embodied meanings in mundane life‐processes. The complex realization of identities for the Adivasis and the Bodos is fostered by the exposure of fear, past loss of life, and the varied interactions between victims and perpetrators in everyday social life.

Preconditions and causes of inter-ethnic conflicts in Central Asia

Central Asia's ethnic diversity presents both opportunities and challenges for sus-tainable development. While cultural richness can foster social cohesion, ethnic inequalities and tensions can impede progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. This study aims to analyse the main factors contributing to inter-ethnic conflicts in the region, examining their impact on stability and propos-ing measures to promote inclusive development and multicultural coexistence. Utilizing comparative, case study, statistical, and analytical methods, the research explores the complex interplay of ethnic diversity, territorial disputes, economic factors, and political instability as preconditions and causes of inter-ethnic con-flicts. The Central Asian region is characterised by a significant diversity of ethnic groups, each of which has its own unique cultural, religious, and historical features. This creates a potential field for inter-ethnic tensions and conflicts. The results of research in this area underline the need for in-depth analyses of specific conflicts and the development of measures to resolve and prevent inter-ethnic conflicts in Central Asia. Effective management of these preconditions and causes can con-tribute to maintaining peace and stability in the region. The study examines recent inter-ethnic conflicts that have occurred in the territory of Central Asia. The practi-cal significance of this research lies in its potential to inform strategies for conflict prevention, peace-building, and the promotion of multicultural coexistence. By addressing ethnic inequalities and fostering inclusive development, Central Asian nations can create an enabling environment for sustainable growth.

Construction of Ethnic Religious Borders, Cognitive Disruption and Resultant Suffering of People in Indian and Nepali Texts

Religious-ethnic diversity makes human society beautiful; however, the sensitive area can also be the site of potential conflict and violence. Researcher is interested in observing the politics how ethnic religious borders are constructed among harmoniously settled races, how due to cognitive disruption they turn into each others’ enemies, and as a result, the divisive strategy results in the suffering of people. The portrayal of politics staged on the ground of religious diversity in Indian partition literature and the utilization of ethnic diversity for the political benefits after 1990 political change followed by Maoist insurgency in Nepal have been explored for this study. Indian-Pakistani partition novels like Khushwant Singh’s The Train to Pakistan, Bhisham Sahni’s Tamas, Abdullah Hussein’s The Weary Generations, Bapsi Sidhwa’s Cracking India, and some secondary texts about ethno-politics that emerged after 1990 political change and accelerated during Maoist insurgency followed by promulgation of constitution through constituent assembly in Nepal, have been analyzed in detail. Textual data from primary literary texts have been exhaustively discussed and analyzed. Relevant critics have been quoted for justification of the argument. Affect theory and the theories of ethnic conflict provide the theoretical light for the analysis. The celebration of the nationalist historiography of India and Nepali unity in diversity, the aura of ethnic religious harmony and nation building, get replaced by ethnic politics resulting in internal political struggle comparable to colonial divisive strategy.

Systemic conflict transformation approach to ethnic conflicts: a reflection from Balochistan, Pakistan

This research aimed to construct a model to examine the root causes, design the peace structure for intervention, and plan the pathways for transforming ethnic conflicts in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. The current approaches to intervention in ethnic conflicts often lack a thorough analysis of the complexity of conflicts and transformation plans. This research adopted the Systemic Conflict Transformation framework of the Berghof Foundation for Peace Support of 2006, with certain amendments to suit the context of Balochistan. The project is significant because implementing this model would lead to conflict resolution, relation-building, and peace in the region. A qualitative methodology with the case study approach has been employed to address the research objectives. This study incorporated non-structure interviews, a review of existing literature, and personal reflections for constructing a peace framework. The findings indicate that the systemic conflict model is applicable in the context of Balochistan. It effectively identifies the apparent and hidden factors of conflicts and offers a comprehensive and actionable plan for conflict transformation, providing a comprehensive solution. This study recommends adopting this model by state authorities, government, and peace agents involved in ethnic conflicts to foster peace and harmony and rebuild regional relations.

Dynamics of Conflict Management Research in the Public and Private Sectors: A Bibliometric Analysis

This bibliometric analysis explores the evolving landscape of conflict management research across various dimensions, including thematic clusters, research trends, emerging opportunities, and author collaborations. Utilizing VOSviewer for visual mapping, the study identifies key themes such as leadership styles, resolution processes, and personal traits like gender and professional roles that dominate the discourse. A longitudinal analysis from 2002 to 2010 highlights a pivotal shift from foundational conflict management concepts towards addressing broader societal impacts and understanding the economic ramifications of conflict. Opportunities for future research were pinpointed in underexplored areas such as ethnic conflicts, the costs associated with conflict, and the roles of power in achieving peace. The author collaboration network, though sparse, reveals central figures that could drive further interdisciplinary studies. This study not only maps the current state of conflict management research but also sets the stage for future explorations that could bridge theoretical gaps and enhance practical applications.

The New World Order: Geopolitical Shifts in the Post-Cold War Era

The end of the Cold War marked a pivotal moment in global history, widely seen as the commencement of the "New World Order." The new world order in the post-cold war witnesses the decrease in the powers of classical states and their inter-states matters for restoring international peace, and emerging of other threats like religious militancy, ethnic conflicts, unfair economic competition, north-south conflict, terrorism, etc. This research presents a comprehensive analysis of the challenges, dynamics and potential of the post-Cold War era. This research aims to explore the complexities of “New World Order” in post-Cold War era in international relations through an examination of global political, economic, and socio-cultural transformations, to analyze the geopolitical landscape by focusing on the increasing involvement of non-state players during the post-Cold War era in reshaping economies, society, and conflict dynamics. The study utilizes qualitative research approach to conduct this study.

HISTORICAL ASPECTS OF THE EVOLUTION OF NATIONAL SECURITY IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

National security represents a fundamental pillar of the rule of law, which has gone through a long path throughout history and has undergone a series of geopolitical and economic changes. After gaining independence in 1991, the Republic of Moldova gradually developed its institutions in the field of national security to ensure the protection of its interests and state sovereignty. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, during the post-independence transition period, the Republic of Moldova faced significant challenges related to its national security system, including political instability, external pressures, ethnic and territorial conflicts. In this context, the creation and consolidation of institutions in the field of security has been and continues to be an important step for the Republic of Moldova in maintaining state sovereignty and democracy. Throughout its history, the Republic of Moldova has joined international organizations, which is an integral part of efforts to strengthen national security and promote the democratic values of the rule of law.

Collective Identity During Societal Regression: Transformation from Self-Identification to Sub-Human Trait Associations

In this study, collective identity is explored in relation to socio-political discourses within a historical context through the 13th regression element, which is an association of others with subhuman traits. Arguments are supported through longitudinal documentary analysis and secondary data from unstructured interviews. Discourse analysis was used to analyse data. This article presents several symbolisms relevant to emerging collective identity discourses and provides evidence of how socio-political changes throughout history can cause a change or confusion in collective identity. It also argues that societies with prolonged ethnic conflict, which are under the profound influence of a mainland, are very likely to have dual identities and dissimilar identifications among their group members. Through its analysis, this article develops Volkan’s Tree Model and suggests a phase IV in light of the existing dynamics in Cyprus. This study suggests the inclusion of all possible stages in co-existence, from dissociation to unification, in proposed phase IV.

Say Her Name: Resistance, Race Riots, and a Bioarchaeology of Black Life in New York City

Say Her Name: Resistance, Race Riots, and a Bioarchaeology of Black Life in New York City

Does the experience of ethnic conflict enhance ethnic identity?

ABSTRACT How is the experience of ethnic conflict associated with ethnic identity? While the study of ethnic identity has often focused on the role of political institutions, we contribute to the discussion that the experience of ethnic conflict should be considered as an important factor that can influence ethnic identity. Further, studies that examine the impact of ethnic conflict on ethnic identity have not reached a consensus about whether ethnic conflict hardens or weakens ethnic identity. Thus we aim to expand this scholarship by using survey data across 33 countries to formulate a generalizable argument regarding the effects of ethnic conflict on ethnic identity. The results of our analysis show that within their ethnic groups, the experience of ethnic conflict is associated with a stronger sense of ethnic identity. However, we also find evidence that there is a U-shaped relationship between conflict duration and ethnic identity. In other words, although a longer conflict duration is initially associated with a weakened ethnic identity, a longer conflict duration eventually strengthens the sense of ethnic identity again.

Peran United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) dalam Menangani Pemenuhan Hak Anak-Anak Pengungsi Rohingya di Bangladesh Tahun 2017-2023

The refugee crisis experienced by Bangladesh due to the mass exodus of Rohingya refugees fleeing ethnic conflict in Myanmar is one of the largest refugee issues in the world. This crisis needs to be addressed immediately as it can threaten the lives of both the local population and the refugees themselves. Overcrowded shelters, housing nearly 1 million refugees with half of the population being children, increase the risk of disease transmission and violence, which can be a deadly combination for children. Therefore, to tackle the refugee problem, especially in fulfilling the rights of Rohingya children in Bangladesh, international actors' assistance is urgently needed. One of the organizations involved is UNICEF. UNICEF strives to provide aid in line with its capabilities and functions as an international organization focused on children and women. The aid provided by UNICEF is in the form of foreign aid or humanitarian assistance, divided into two types: material assistance and technical assistance. Material assistance includes the provision of clean water, food, hygiene supplies, education, and shelter. Technical assistance is provided through protection, training, and counseling. In its efforts to meet the needs of Rohingya refugee children, UNICEF has established the "UNICEF’s Humanitarian Action for Children in Bangladesh: Rohingya Influx" program, covering several sectors, including Child Protection, Health, Education, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and Nutrition. The humanitarian assistance provided aligns with the stipulations of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) regarding the fulfillment of the rights of refugee children.

VICTIMOLOGICAL PREVENTION: EFFECTIVE PRACTICES OF INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE

Victimological prevention is defined as a system of measures and strategies aimed at preventing and reducing violence, as well as at protecting potential and direct victims. In today’s world, this topic is becoming more and more relevant, as socio-cultural, technological and political changes create new challenges and opportunities in the field of victimology. Current challenges are characterized by low public awareness, lack of funding and resources, and cultural relativism. Politicization of problems, ethnic conflicts and deficiencies in legislation are serious tasks for victimological prevention. The rapid development of technology is giving rise to new forms of violence, such as digital violence and cybercrime. Underestimation of these risks can lead to incorrect use of technologies in the framework of victimology prevention. The article notes the need to strengthen public participation and develop culturally sensitive strategies. Ensuring privacy and safety for those seeking care is essential to the success of this field. Inclusive and gender-balanced strategies are also identified as key elements for further improvement. Analysis of international experience indicates the importance of joint work of various sectors of society and global coordination to solve victimological problems. Victimological prevention requires constant improvement of strategies and methods aimed at adapting to changes in the world. Successful victimization prevention relies on broad partnerships, cultural sensitivity, and the innovative use of technology to achieve the global goals of reducing violence and protecting victims’ rights. Successful victimology prevention requires the joint action of all sectors of society and global coordination. The analysis of international experience shows that the cooperation of various sectors, such as law enforcement agencies, public organizations, government structures, as well as the active participation of international organizations, is a decisive factor in the fight against victimological problems. In addition, the use of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics and information visualization can significantly increase the effectiveness of victimology interventions and help achieve the global goals of reducing violence and protecting victims’ rights.

Patterns of Ethnic Conflict and Challenges of Rural Integration in Gombe South Senatorial District, Gombe State

Ethnic conflicts have dotted the historical landscape of the peoples of Gombe South Senatorial Districts as well as contemporary issues are central to these prolonged ethnic conflicts and violence. This study therefore examines the patterns of ethnic conflicts and challenges of rural integration in Gombe South Senatorial District. The study adopted the mixed-method in data collection. A total 365 sample were drawn from 384 populations as well as 24 key informants for the interviews. The study found out among others that; the immediate cause of the crises was the long-standing issue of boundary and land disputes between these communities, lack of economic opportunities also serves to cause crises, the failure to accurately demarcate the boundaries has eventually deteriorated the strong bound relationship and that these communities shares together, the conflicts have negatively affected the economic, social, and political sectors of the areas. During such conflicts, many lives -were lost and properties running into millions of naira were also lost, the conflicts succeeded in limiting social interaction and harmony amongst the people. The crises have also resulted in the sharp increase in the number of widows and orphans leading to prostitution, unemployment, school dropout etc. The conflicts have affected the voting. and campaign patterns, democratic values and norms. The conflicts also delay viable political transition and consequently the aspiration of producing a Governor of Gombe State despite being the most literate region in the state. The study concludes that sincere governmental schemes and efforts must be established by government to achieve social and distributive justice for all people in the country. For where there is justice there will be peace and where is peace, there will be no conflicts.

Revisiting Ethnic Framing in Conflicts: Challenging the Concept of Ethnic Conflict

Revisiting Ethnic Framing in Conflicts: Challenging the Concept of Ethnic Conflict

The Identity Crisis among Peoples from Mixed Parents from Countries under in Inter-States Conflicts: Case of Rwanda, D.R. Congo and Burundi

The study was carried out by 5 mixed- people living in Burundi, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, within the framework of guided interview seminars, in order to analyze the construction of mixed-ethics people in the context of identity conflicts due to ethnic or cultural conflicts, otherwise known as “ethnocultural conflicts”. Mestizos are a minority in the states where we live, and are considered problematic in the various societies of Africa’s Great Lakes region country. My fieldwork revealed that mixed-ethnic people in these three countries are victims of several atrocities, including ethnic marginalization, nepotism, socio-political demonization and economic discrimination. In this context, I have attempted to identify the main actors involved in identity conflicts among mixed-ethic people, and to propose a perspective of dialogue as a solution to the situations of the mixed-ethnic people mentioned above. On this basis, a number of recommendations have been put forward to reinforce the hope of positive action at regional level for the promotion of peace and lasting stability, particularly for mixed people who are increasingly victims of appearance status at UN level.

Economic marginalization of ethnic minorities in Eastern Europe: A cross-national assessment of self-reported experiences

How has identification and differentiation based on ethnicity shaped the economic experience in postsocialist Europe? We propose that creation of neoliberal capitalism in the context of ethnic conflict led to a sense of economic marginalization of East European ethnic minorities. Findings from Life in Transition Survey analysis show greater economic discontent by ethnic minorities in 2006 than in 1989 and persistent discontent in 2016, controlling for social class standing and other relevant demographics. Economic marginalization may also lead ethnic minorities to support more involvement of state in guaranteeing employment and low prices and to dislike markets as a way to organize the economy, both supported in our data. We conclude by suggesting how our findings about marginalization of ethnic minorities help put into perspective contemporary receptivity of East Europeans (and others) to nationalist and populist leaders.