Failures and Discontents of Ethnic Based Federalism in Ethiopia (original) (raw)

Abstract

Ethiopia is the oldest independent country in Africa and known as a mosaic of Nationalities. In 1991 EPRDF came to power and adopted federal state structure to answer the question of Nationalities that prolonged during the imperial and Derge regimes. This paper attempts to show some failures and discontents of Ethiopian ethnic based federalism by considering four basic criterias. These are; the intensification of ethnic conflicts, the existence of dominant top down politics, absence of federal political culture and the rise of the question of identity. Currently, ethnic based federalism has sharpened ethnic differences and hostility among ethnic groups. Ethnicity and identity are strongly politicized and manipulated for political purpose. There are disparities between regional states to exercise their political and economic powers. The federal government is exercising an increasing control over regions. However, regions lack genuine legitimacy and they are not autonomous to exercise...

Key takeaways

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  1. Ethiopia's ethnic federalism has intensified ethnic conflicts and deepened divisions among various ethnic groups.
  2. The EPRDF's centralized control undermines regional autonomy and fosters top-down political dynamics.
  3. The 1995 Constitution allows unconditional secession, complicating national unity and stability.
  4. Inequitable resource distribution exacerbates tensions between ethnic regions, particularly favoring Tigray over others.
  5. Absence of a genuine federal political culture hinders the emergence of a cohesive national identity.

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FAQs

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What explains the unique constitutional interpretation in Ethiopia's federal system?add

The paper reveals that Ethiopia's House of Federation, unlike typical federations, interprets the constitution, lacking judicial review power, undermining its independence. This unique arbiter role emphasizes safeguarding ethnic interests while posing risks to impartial governance.

How has ethnic federalism contributed to inter-ethnic conflict in Ethiopia?add

The study finds that ethnic federalism has intensified local and regional conflicts, with thousands killed between 1991 and 2005 due to politicized ethnicity. Conflicts often arise from territorial and resource disputes, exacerbating tensions among diverse groups.

When was the Ethiopian Constitution adopted and what was its significance?add

The FDRE Constitution was ratified on December 8, 1994, and came into effect on August 21, 1995, marking Ethiopia's transition to an ethnic-based federal system aimed at addressing historical ethnic conflicts. The constitution enshrined regional autonomy and recognized the right to secession.

Why do some experts criticize the implementation of Ethiopia's ethnic federalism?add

Critics argue that Ethiopia's ethnic federalism has failed to provide genuine autonomy, maintaining a centralized control by EPRDF, which undermines regional self-governance. This centralization fosters ethnic divisions rather than the expected unity and cooperation among diverse communities.

What has been the impact of secession rights outlined in the FDRE Constitution?add

The right to secession in Article 39 of the FDRE Constitution is constitutionally guaranteed but remains controversial and untested, potentially encouraging ethnic entrepreneurship and fixed ethnic identities. Such provisions risk deepening ethnic divisions and conflicts over territorial claims.