IPSS Theses and Dissertations

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The Challenges of Post-conflict Peace Building in Africa (With Focus on Rwanda)
(Addis Ababa University, 2009-06-01) Dechasa Gurmu; Marcel Leroy
In 1992, the former UN Secretary-General, Boutros Boutros Ghali, introduced the concept of Post-conflict Peace Building in his document known as 'An Agenda for Peace'. The new concept of post-conflict peace building which encompasses multi-faceted programs that are geared towards sustainable peace and development is a result of this document. Africa has been the victim of confl icts first due to the colonial wars and later on due to civil wars between rival political parties and ethnic groups. On top of this, the peace agreements that arc made are often violated and conflict relapse takes place. This problem is the focus of this research. The research explores why post-conflict African states often fail to achieve sustainable peace. It follows that exploring the challenges to post-conflict peace bui lding becomes the objective of the research. It is mainly a quaJitative research of secondary data in which African conflicts and their impacts as well as the post-confl ict peace building chaJlenges were reviewed. Reference was made to books, journaJs, papers and websites that focus on these issues. The research is focused mainly on the conflict in Rwanda that includes the horrific events of the genocide and its aftennath of post-conflict peace building efforts. Alongside the investigation of the conflict and post-conflict peace building activities in Rwanda, a brief overview of the conflicts and post-conflict situations of Mozambique and Angola were taken for the sake of comparing the progress of confl icts and peace building opportunities and constraints in different socio-economic, cultural, politica1, and country specific situations. Moreover, key-informant data from a few Rwandese and a Burundian residents in Addis were collected and used for the purpose of complementing and enriching the secondary data. The informants possess a rich knowledge of the conflicts in tbe Great Lakes Region in general and that of Rwanda in particular. This primary data though limited to Rwanda and the Great Lakes Region, has also served as a counter-checking mechanism for the various secondary data sources. The study indicates that the major challenges to postconflict peace building are: security, functional law and order, socio-economic reconstruction, governance and participation, and the resettlement of refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs), in that order of priority. Finally, it has been found that the success of a sustainable post-conflict peace building depends on a coordinated, coherent, holistic. and country-specific approach that focuses on local ownership and participation.
Exploring the Causes and Consequences of Illegal Migration to Saudi Arabia: The Case of Lidata and Kirkos Sub-Cities in Addis Ababa City Administration
(Addis Ababa University, 2015-02) Gebresilassie, Daniel; kassa, Getahun (PhD)
The objective of this study was to examine the cause and consequences of illegal migration to Saudi Arabia from Addis Ababa city administration by taking Lidata and Kirkos Sub- cities as a case study. To this end, qualitative research method which encompasses key informant interviews and focus group discussions were employed for primary data gathering. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select members of focus group discussions under two categories which have six members each and key informants. To contact some key informants especially returnees from Saudi Arabia, snowball purposive sampling techniques were used. The data gathered from the participants were analyzed carefully and the results of focus group discussions were analyzed through categorization and labeling method system. The results of the study indicated that people of the study area are motivated to go to the kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to poverty, lack of employment opportunity, the need for improving economy, success stories of returnees from Saudi Arabia, and trends have contributed for massive out flux of illegal migration of people from the study area. Communication with brokers, borrowing money to pay for their journey via illegal migration and using fake document were some of mechanisms used by illegal migrants in pre-departure. Confrontation with brokers, physical violence, insecurity of basic needs, and theft of migrants organs by trained physicians, torture, and language problem were some major consequences hosted by illegal migrants throughout their journey and in Saudi Arabia. Creating awareness in collaboration with religious leaders, training returnees and organizing them under different microenterprises were some of the measures implemented to mitigate illegal migration to Saudi Arabia despite few challenges that hinders management of illegal migration like brokers, illegal private agencies and awareness creation problem. Key words: migration, immigration, illegal migration, irregular migration, smuggling, brokers, agencies
The Role of African Governance Architecture (AGA) in Preventing Structural Conflict in Africa
(Addis Ababa University, 2015-07) Hailemariam, Tsion; NdiayeNtab, Michelle (PhD)
While the African Union (AU), through The African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), has shown an increase in its response to the peace and security challenges, it, however, has a long way to go in terms of addressing the causes, triggers, accelerators and consequences of conflicts. Africa now faces fewer inter-state wars and more intra-state conflicts emerging from poor governance, democratic deficiency, weak state institutions, indigent human rights protections and irresponsible political systems. AU has been successful in the formulation and adoption of norms and institutional frameworks. However, it rather failed in implementing these policies and laws. Furthermore, the scattered mechanisms for the promotion of democratic governance and human rights in the AU are a particular challenge to its struggle for sustainable peace and security in Africa. In order to remove these deficiencies, the AU needs to swiftly implement the policies in cooperation with Member States to increase its impact and relevance on the ground. To this effect, AU is introducing a new architecture called African Governance Architecture (AGA) to address the root causes of conflicts by improving democratic governance, constitutionalism and human security in Africa. This approach towards the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts will help to address structural root causes of conflicts in Africa. It will further enable to connect, empower and build the capacities of the African peoples in strengthening governance and consolidating democracy through shared values they have in common. This study examines the development of governance and democracy controlling mechanisms in light of structural conflict prevention, and the existing gap between AGA and APSA in the AU. It is among the first to contribute a new academic perspective on the highly topical issue - AGA. In addition, it adds value to the AU’s struggle to improve democratization and human rights records of the Member States through the AGA framework.
Regulation of Irregular Migration: The Link between African Union and European Union Frameworks
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-05) Dawit, Mahlet; Yohannes, Dawit (PhD)
The southern border of Europe is a frequent gateway for irregular African migrants who cross through the west and central, east Mediterranean migration routes. These life threatening migration routes result in the loss of the lives of migrants. This study deals with the link and implementations of the African Union, European Union and the Joint EU- Africa policy frame works on the regulation of irregular migrations. The study employed qualitative research design. Using purposive sampling, in-depth interview were conducted with concerned experts and officials. The study also included data obtained from books, various legal documents (regional, continental and international laws), journals, conventions, Declarations, researches, conference data protocols, as well as other secondary data source. The data was analyzed using content and comparative analysis methods. The study revealed that even if the EU and Africa advance the promotion of joint frameworks in comprehensive manner, their policies have not achieved their goal on addressing the root causes of irregular migration and the crisis on the loss of lives due to the mismatch of priority, lack of shared commitment, coordination and other policy implementation gaps. Most migrants from Africa are barely skilled persons while Europe wishes to accept the skilled and the rich. Due to conflict of interest between the AU and EU migrants, the root causes for migration are overlooked. If EU assists Africa on the promotion of development and addressing the root causes of irregular migration, and African countries undertake the necessary policy adjustments, the problems associated with irregular migration will be better addressed in the future. Key words: Irregular migration, AU, EU, policy framework
Practicing Restorative Justice in Ethiopia: The Case of Gumaa Traditional Conflict Resolution Mechanism among the Sebeta and Burayou Oromo
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-05) Hailu, Melatwork; Angoma Okello, Sunday (PhD)
Restorative Justice System came as a new approach and way to respond to crime and developed as an alternative move towards complimenting the failure of traditional criminal law which mainly focuses on punishment. Restorative Justice (RJ), by fostering dialog among the victim, the offender and the community ultimately leads to reconciliation and restoration whereas, the Ethiopian Criminal Law from the very first inscription in Fewuse Menfessawi up to the current criminal law is highly embodied with the theory of punishing and retribution of offenders. The law takes the state as the chief victim of the crime and disregards the actual victim and the community. This shows that the concepts and notions of RJ are not primarily included or incorporated in the criminal law. Though the formal legal system fails to give enough space to restorative justice system, its principles and values are highly loaded and embodied in the traditional conflict resolution mechanisms which are widely exercised in the different parts of the country. Gumaa, as one of the institutions of conflict resolution of the Oromo people, has been practiced and widely exercised on almost equal footing with the formal legal system. As a system, it is mainly based on oral narration that passes from generation to generation and lacks inscription and structural arrangement. However, its objectives, principles and values are related and they overlap with that of RJ. Thus, this research examines the nexus, compatibility and divergence of the three criminal legal systems: Restorative Justice, Ethiopian Criminal Law and gumaa. It attempts to substantiate arguments and comparisons through their objectives, principles and values. Furthermore, the study points out how the informal legal system (Gumaa affects the formal legal system in terms of its practice and acceptance by the people at large. Based on these findings, the research shows the need for implementing a mix or a kind of hybrid criminal legal system which incorporates the existing formal and informal legal systems. Moreover, it emphasises the need for the enhancement of gumaa as it seems to be the best, most compatible and so up-to-date conflict resolution mechanism.
The Effects of Environmental Degradation on Human Security: The Case of Erob Wereda, Eastern Tigray Zone Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-05) Hailemariam, Gebrehiwot; Hassan, Ahmed (PhD)
The overall objective is, to study the effects of environmental degradation on human security with special emphasis on food, economic, health, social and personal security in Erob Wereda. To achieve this objective, the study employed fundamentally qualitative with limited quantitative methods to collect relevant data. It used both primary and secondary sources of data. The primary data was collected from 55 participants via in-depth informant interview, focus group discussants representing the grass root societies such as smallholder farmers, local residents and other key informants selected based on purposeful sampling. Secondary data was obtained through critical review and analysis of related literatures and appropriate documents. The methods were In-depth Informants Interview (III), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informants Interview (KII) and personal observations and employed qualitative analysis with limited quantitative analysis. Based on the study, the causes of environmental degradation in Erob Wereda are several intertwined and conglomeration factors. The core finding of the study displayed that, environmental degradation has actual, unprecedented and multitudinous effect on human security which undermine food, economic, health, social and personal security of farmers and environmental dependent peoples of Erob Wereda. Each household is prevalently faced inter-household conflict, food shortage, economic deterioration and misery due to declining of their agricultural, cattle and honey production from time to time. Moreover, diminishing in land, bushes/forest and water resources has significant impact on weakening of socio-economic values; undermine means of production and livelihood and may extend as major threat to the future generation. The study also proclaimed that single environmental problem can have many threats starting from the household to the national and international level. Thus, the results indicate that extensive environmental degradation poses multiple challenges to human security. So, to solve repercussion of environmental risks, environmental issues should be critically dealt with. The study also revealed that the adverse effect of environmental degradation in Erob Wereda is exodus migration which threat personal security and social disintegration. Generally, resource degradation is serious problem and poses myriad challenge in the study area. The environment in the area has become more fragile than ever resulting decline in agricultural production and productivity, frequent food deficiency, health problems, drought and famines that severely impair human security. Finally, the study set-forth that there is interactive and vicious causality-effect correlation between environmental degradation and human security. Key words; Environment, Environmental Degradation, Human security.
Deradicalization in the Context of Islam: A Counter Extremism Measure within the Framework of the IGAD
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-05) Taye, Berhanu; Abdalla, Amr (PhD)
Individuals or groups pass through radicalization then violent extremism stages before they become terrorists. Islamic extremism/radicalism is a political ideology employed for non-religious ends. The research aimed at identifying counterterrorism mechanisms and ways of incorporating deradicalization in the IGAD framework. Data were collected from Key Informants and documents. Through thematic, content and comparative analyses, the finding showed that IGAD and its member States hardly adopt deradicalization but for Sudan. The ISSP is to launch a Center of Excellence for CVE to counter extremism and facilitate inter/intra faith dialogues. Background-factors leading to radicalization are perceived/real grievances resulted from social, economic, political, historical and personal experiences. Principles of AfSol, Human Development Theory and RJ would be appropriate approaches to counter radicalization and its factors. Deradicalization will dry out human, material, financial and moral resources of terrorism thereby weakening terrorism from its nucleus. Local mechanisms at grassroots-level would effectively address radicalization and its threats by fighting the Islamic extremist ideologies. Governments must cooperate their efforts, and share experiences and resources using the IGAD platform. Human rights and legitimate questions must get due attention. Islam must own deradicalization processes, and provide institutional and conceptual tools for countering extremism and terrorism committed under its name.
Regulation of Irregular Migration: The Link between African Union and European Union Frameworks
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-05) Dawit, Mahlet; Yohannes, Dawit
The southern border of Europe is a frequent gateway for irregular African migrants who cross through the west and central, east Mediterranean migration routes. These life threatening migration routes result in the loss of the lives of migrants. This study deals with the link and implementations of the African Union, European Union and the Joint EU- Africa policy frame works on the regulation of irregular migrations. The study employed qualitative research design. Using purposive sampling, in-depth interview were conducted with concerned experts and officials. The study also included data obtained from books, various legal documents (regional, continental and international laws), journals, conventions, Declarations, researches, conference data protocols, as well as other secondary data source. The data was analyzed using content and comparative analysis methods. The study revealed that even if the EU and Africa advance the promotion of joint frameworks in comprehensive manner, their policies have not achieved their goal on addressing the root causes of irregular migration and the crisis on the loss of lives due to the mismatch of priority, lack of shared commitment, coordination and other policy implementation gaps. Most migrants from Africa are barely skilled persons while Europe wishes to accept the skilled and the rich. Due to conflict of interest between the AU and EU migrants, the root causes for migration are overlooked. If EU assists Africa on the promotion of development and addressing the root causes of irregular migration, and African countries undertake the necessary policy adjustments, the problems associated with irregular migration will be better addressed in the future.
Public and Self-perceptions of the F.D.R.E. Defence Force
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Zikarge, Berhane; Adaye, Yonas (PhD)
There is a significant perception gap between the public and the Ethiopian Defence Force itself with respect to the attractiveness, prestige and legitimacy of the military institution. This research mainly focused on the views of selected senior preparatory students, their parents, veterans and military personnel. The survey results are analyzed to answer three questions: How do the students, parents and veterans perceive the F.D.R.E. Defence Force and the military profession? How do the Defence and the military personnel view themselves with regard to the image, prestige or attractiveness of the institution and the military profession? What is the perception gap? And what implications does it have for recruitment and retention? The study uses prestige and legitimacy as a conceptual framework of analysis to examine a range of possible factors affecting the perception gap between the students, parents, veterans and the Defence institution. The findings show that low salary, and poor quality of life of military personnel; and lack of support and recognition for the veterans partly explain the declining prestige of the Defence. The overall image which emerges from this very limited case study is that the military profession is not attractive. Moreover, this study also revealed that there is a widely held perception that the Defence Force is not free from partisanship and there is a prevailing perception that the Defence is not representative enough at its officer corps level, which in turn does seem to affect its legitimacy. Mounting evidence was also found that these deficiencies have profound implications for personnel recruitment and retention. However, the Defence institution does not seem to share these perceptions, differing on the depth, and implications of these shortcomings, claiming that the institution still attracts enough recruits, it maintains high standing as regards prestige, and it enjoys solid legitimacy. Finally, the study concludes that there is a wide perception gap between the public and the Defence with regard to the core issues under consideration, except, the apparent consensus on the perception of Defence capabilit
Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and Changing Power Relations in the Eastern Nile Basin
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Seifu , Henok
The Eastern Nile Basin is known for its power asymmetry and the existence of Egypt‟s hydro-hegemony in the Basin, Ethiopia has been contesting this hydro-hegemony, through various counter hydro-hegemonic mechanisms and strategies. This research takes the commencement of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as one of Ethiopia‟s counter-hydro hegemonic strategy. The thesis examined the change in the power relation among Eastern Nile Riparian states and the counter hydro-hegemonic mechanisms applied before and after the commencement of the GERD. The research applied qualitative research methods, using both primary and secondary sources. Interviews were conducted with experts, officials from relevant institutions and offices in Ethiopia; an attempt to interview officials of Sudan and Egypt Embassies in Addis Ababa has failed. The study reveals the power relation in the Eastern Nile Basin has started to change as Ethiopia started to show a relative increase of power that makes it capable of narrowing the power asymmetry in the Basin. Ethiopia has applied various counter hydro-hegemonic mechanisms before and after the commencement of the GERD against the hydro-hegemony of Egypt in order to bring about equitable and reasonable utilization of Nile waters in the Basin. Ethiopia‟s counter hydro-hegemony started to become more significant mostly after Ethiopia commenced a unilateral national hydroelectric dam projects, particularly the GERD with domestic funding. As a result, Ethiopia applied both leveraging and liberating counter hydro-hegemonic mechanisms simultaneously in the Basin. Ethiopia was successful in setting an agenda for the creation of the International Panel of Expert to build the confidence of the downstream states by urged them to accept the GERD as a fact on the ground. Ethiopia has also managed to draw Sudan‟s support concerning the construction of the GERD, and able to win their support apart from its (Sudan‟s) former stance as an ally of Egypt concerning any matters related to the Nile. And, Ethiopia was also able to sign the Declaration of Principles on the use of the GERD with Egypt and Sudan, where the downstream states had compromised from their former position of „acquired‟ and „historic right‟ concerning the usage of Nile waters. The thesis concludes by highlighting that the GERD is one component of Ethiopia‟s counter hydro-hegemony, with the potential to physically control water and assert greater power in the Basin when completed.
Regulating Proliferation And Misuse Of Small Arms In Eastern Gojjam Zone Of Amhara Regional State
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Tenaw , Aemro; Gebremichael, Mesfin (PhD)
Proliferation of small arms and light weapons is one of the serious human security and development challenges for communities in the world whether in the time of peace or conflict/war. Despite various international, regional & sub-regional and national approaches formulated to regulate proliferation of small arms and light weapons, they have faced implementation challenges. In addition, many states still lack national legislation to regulate small arms problem. The central objective of the study is to assess the reasons for possession and misuse of small arms and legal and institutional policies in the study area. The study was basically qualitative case study using both primary and secondary sources of data. The sampling technique was nonrandom sampling technique which includes convenience, snowball and purposive sampling. Accordingly, the data were collected through in-depth interview with key informants and informants as well as illegal brokers, and focus group discussion organized from elders. Document analysis was also used as a source of data. The study has revealed that even though the exact number of small arms is unknown, the magnitude or number of small arms possessed and circulated in East Gojjam Zone is high. This has negative implication to human safety and security. According to the findings of the study, the major reasons for possession and misuse of small arms are: cultural (pride, revenge and emotional music and poetry), easy availability and brokering, security dilemma, alcohol and lack of skills to manage guns. In addition, the findings show that the legal mechanism is not enough to regulate proliferation and miss use of small arms in the study area. As central territory of the country it is expected that the government should take strong and effective measures to control small arms problem. But, in practice, there are no much concrete actions to regulate small arms problem. Therefore, adoption, sensitization and implementation of the law as well as continuous awareness raising and education to bring attitude change towards possession of small arms and some harmful cultures is required to monitor small arms in the study area.
The Implications of Reconstructing Identities for Nation- Building in Newly Formed States-The Case of Eritrea
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Gebremariam, Hailay; Gebremichael, Mesfin (PhD)
The pith point of this study is examining the implications of reconstructing identity with regard to history and culture on the Eritrean people and, with relation to Ethiopian and the peace and stability of the Horn of Africa. Building strong national identity is not a harmful act per se. If anything, having similar cultural values, historical agreements and believing in common social destiny are among the basics to create firm democratic and political principles. However, all nationalist ideologies do not fit for all. It has been discussed that the process making of the Eritrean nation have resulted in serious troubles inside and outside the state. The researcher has used qualitative research method in order to gather data for the study. Eritrean citizens who live in Addis Ababa are used as main informants. Some Eritrean (Eritrean-born) and Ethiopian scholars are also included in the process of data collection. The primary data is enriched by certain secondary resources. By using inductive approach, all gathered data are analyzed and discussed. For the sake of forging unique and strong national identity, the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF) now known as Peoples Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), has been reshaping some historical and cultural features of the Eritrean people. Some historical events and cultural aspects which could be used as a reference to the long lasted connection of Eritrean and Ethiopian people are becoming the victims of abuse and distortion. Thus, this thesis gives analysis on the implications of such processes. It investigates the troubles that are instigated on the people of Eritrea and their relation with the Ethiopians. It then examines the effects on the peace and stability of the Horn Africa. The ‘differentiation’ and ‘prioritizing the political culture’ methods are being widely used as instruments of making unique Eritrean national identity. As the result, some aspects of history and culture are tailored. Many historical and cultural ties with Ethiopians are glossed over or replaced by other new ones which vindicate the formation of national identity. This makeover has brought many implications on the people about which this thesis discusses.
The Role of Gibe Iii Dam in Achieving Effective Cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Fitiwi , Mahlet; Kiros, Kidane (PhD)
This study investigates the role of the Gibe III in bringing about cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya through effective utilization of natural resources. Cooperation would be realized if there is public participation of the local population that inhabits the affected areas, enforcement of basin wide agreement, environmental scrutiny and sharing of information. Trans-boundary waters have a way of bringing cooperation between the riparian states as they do conflict. Therefore, this paper has examined the role of the Gibe III Dam in acting as a cooperation tool and how its water can be utilized effectively if proper agreements were in place. Although there are a couple of agreements on the Omo River between Ethiopia and Kenya, there is no trans-boundary water agreement so far. Therefore the study discusses in detail how cooperation can be achieved without a cooperation framework. There have been other Dams and developmental agreements on the Omo River but the Gibe III has become a talking issue for some time because of the perceived impact it is expected to cause on Lake Turkana. If the water level of Lake Turkana falls, it will lead to conflict between the two countries, hence the need for cooperation and effectively managing the shared water. Thus, the study has investigated whether there are cooperative tools and/or water management agreements between Ethiopia and Kenya. The reaction to the construction of the Dam by the affected people and how they are affected has also been examined. Analysis of conflict prevention and management methods used by appropriate bodies in case conflict arises has also been conducted. The challenges that were faced during the construction of the Dam have also been studied in order to help with the step forward.
The Impact of Refugess on Host Communities: A Case Study of South Sudanese Refugees in Gambella People’s National Regional State
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Tadesse, Eyael
This study explored the impact of South Sudanese refugees on the host community of Gambella People’s National Regional State (GPNRS). Following the outbreak of the second Sudanese civil war (1983) and the recent civil war of South Sudan (2013), there has been a continuous influx of South Sudanese refugees into Gambella region. The region is situated in close proximity to neighboring South Sudan where the majority of refugees originate. Currently Gambella host close to 300, 000 refugees majority of whom are South Sudanese. Such large-scale refugee influx severely affected the region in general and the host community in particular. The study utilized qualitative method and non-probability sampling technique to select informants. By conducting interviews and focus group discussions with a total of 29 informants from the host community of Gambella, South Sudanese refugees as well as government and non-government actors of relevance, the study has examined the important points delimited in the research. The finding of the study revealed not only the burden or the challenges but also some of the advantages and benefits experienced by the host community of Gambella following the South Sudanese refugee influx. The refugee influx brought social, economic, security, environmental, and demographic impacts in the region. Notably, the positive impact is seen in terms of socio-economic aspects and the negative implication is primarily indicated in terms of widening ethnic divergence among the host community and heightening inter-ethnic conflict between the host community of Gambella and South Sudanese refugees; thereby affected the region’s security. Of equal importance is exploring the complex relationship between the refugees and host communities of Gambella. In this regard, the interplay of several elements such as ethnic identity and socio-economic aspects is seen to determine the impacts as well as the level of interaction between refugees and host communities in the region.
Inter-Ethnic Conflict in South Western Ethiopia: The Case of Alle and Konso
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Demissew , Bantayehu; Wondimu, Habtamu (Pro.)
The theme of this study focuses on the inter-ethnic conflict between Alle and Konso of SNNPRS, South Western Ethiopia. The Alle and Konso ethnic groups have a long history of close relationships. The post 1991 Alle-Konso ethnic relation is either peaceful or conflictual. Their peaceful relation is manifested through their economic interdependence as well as shared socio-cultural practices. Since 1991, there were frequent inter-ethnic conflict between the two ethnic groups. The central objective of this research was to investigate the causes, actors, dynamics and impacts of Alle-Konso inter-ethnic conflict. The study was undertaken to investigate the nature of Alle-Konso inter-ethnic relations after the restructuring of the country along ethnic lines (since 1991) with special emphasis to the post-2010 inter-ethnic conflicts. Methodologically, the researcher employed qualitative research approach with exploratory research design. The researcher highly relied on primary sources of data; however secondary sources of data were also used. The tools used to collect data were in-depth interview, telephone interview, FGD and document analysis. Purposive sampling, a type of non-probability sampling was also used to select the participants for in-depth and telephone interview as well as FGD. The analysis of qualitative data was made using Strategic Conflict Analysis (SCA) model. As per the finding of this study, the pre 2010 Alle-Konso inter-ethnic conflict was mainly caused by the quest of Alle common ethnic identity and self-governance. However, their post-2010 conflict is caused by multiplicity of factors: economic, political, security and socio-cultural and psychological factors. The actors involved in the conflict were internal and external actors. Moreover, the study revealed the impacts of the conflict as; economic, social and political. To manage the conflict and build peace in the study area formal and customary mechanisms of conflict management and peace building were undertaken. However, the attempts failed to address the root causes of the conflict and build lasting peace. Thus, as the finding of this study indicated, in the study area there are still minor inter-personal conflicts that can escalate in to inter-ethnic conflict. Based on the analysis of context, causes, actors and dynamics of Alle-Konso inter-ethnic conflict two major scenarios are drawn: Best-Case and Worst-Case Scenarios. The major conclusion drawn is that politicization of ethnicity and/ ethnic mobilization take its lion share for continued and unresolved inter-ethnic conflict between Alle and Konso ethnic groups. Finally, the thesis suggested recommendations to address the conflict and build lasting peace in the study area.
Addressing the Moyale Conflicts in Southern Ethiopia: Challenges and Prospects
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Sintayehu, Melkamu; Hassen, Ahmed (PhD)
The theme of this study is concerned with addressing the conflicts of the Moyale town in southern Ethiopia. There has been conflicts in Moyale and its environs since early times. However, the nature of the conflict has changed in recent decades, both in its actual subject-matter and in the form of its expression. The conflicts were obviously not the usual fights between pastoral communities over pasture, water source or cattle raid. As a result, the study is aimed at identifying the actors, the factors and the interplay between different dimensions of the Moyale conflicts. Qualitative case study method and descriptive design were used to this end. The analysis is also framed using theories of ethnicity and ethnic mobilizations. The finding indicates that the conflicts in Moyale and its environs shaped and re-shaped by historic and ongoing socio-economic and political developments. The Borana, the Garri and the Gabra found to be parties in conflict while other actors such as the OLF, Al-Shabab, Business Men, Community elites, Security forces from both the Ethiopian and the Kenyan sides involved in the conflicts of the area. The factors of the conflicts also includes Land Ownership and Blurred Frontier Demarcations, Politicized Ethnicity and Elite Mobilization, the Location of Moyale and Unenforceable Citizenship Rights. The efforts of achieving lasting peace held back due to the Socio-economic and Political developments, focus on the Immediate factors of the conflict, the Proliferation of Small Arms, Lack of commitment from Local Elites and the Regional Dimension of the conflicts. At the same time, the recent measures of the government upon local elites, the mental set-up of the community for peace, increased dependency on legal instruments and joint planning and execution of social services found to be windows of opportunities in dealing with the conflicts of the area. In general, the study concludes that the conflicts in the town of Moyale and its environs are the result of a number of actors and factors. And also have a peculiar features which cannot be addressed in terms of pastoralist conflicts of the region and calls for a shift of focus to a deeper level, beyond the surface factors, where the underlying factors are directly addressed.
Exploring the Aftermath of Forced Mass Return: Reintegration Challenges of Deported Ethiopian Migrant Workers from Saudi Arabia
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Betseha, Miheret
Forced return migrants often encounter challenges in reestablishing their lives in home societies due to their abrupt and sudden return as well as for having returned empty handed. This study explored one such event which resulted in mass expulsion of migrants from one of the biggest migrant hosting countries, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Earlier on November 2013, Ethiopia started receiving over 163,000migrant workers expelled from Saudi. Two years has passed since their return and this study explores the aftermath of forced mass return by looking at the current living situation of returnees. It looks into the various stages of migration to fully understand issues relating to their return. The study mainly made use of Qualitative research approach as its the approach that best suits to meet the objectives of the research. An in depth semi structured interview was conducted on 14 returnees of Saudi crackdown which reveal the agonies of return. Non Participant Observation method has also been used as the researcher directly went to the allocated sheds of returnees and witnessed the manner by which returnees are coping up. The Findings of the study indicate that majority of Saudi returnees are not in a self-sufficient situation and that they are currently facing several challenges relating to the business sheds allocated, government bureaucracy, of being organized into groups, and due to stringent requirements in vocational choices. They also established several social challenges intertwined with their sudden forced return such as shame of returning empty handed, tension with family members as well as social isolation. The Ethiopian government need to give huge emphasis on the push factors that lead people to resort to migration and it should also come up with policies that are aimed at better regulating migration as well as return migration. A mechanism that allows for a multi stakeholder cooperation in such emergency situations should also be created and should be made locally adopted. The international community should also put pressure on the government of Saudi Arabia so that the country respects the rights of migrants as they make up a great section of the society.
Inter-household Conflict over Farmland in Jama Woreda of South Wollo Zone: Implications on Human Security
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Tesfaye , Mulugeta; Hassen, Ahmed (PhD)
Land is sole source of survival and means of identity manifestations for many developing countries. Farmers in the study area are suffering from farmland conflict and its associated impacts. The focus of this thesis is investigating and describing different factors of inter-household conflict over farmland and assessing its impacts and human security implications in the study area community. Descriptive-case study qualitative approach was employed in studying the problem. For the purpose of deep investigation of the issue in-depth interview with farmers, key informant interview, and FGDs were data collection instruments. The present researcher collected data from three Kebeles of the Woreda by considering representation of climate zone in the Woreda, abundance of the case and accessibility for transportation. The finding of the study indicated that boundary encroachment, land eviction, drainage conflict, inheritance land disagreement, and crop sharing and contract disagreement are the common types of farmland conflict. Inter-household conflict over farmland occurred with the interaction of underlined factors and risk factors. The divisive institutions, maladministration, individuals’ unproductive competition over farmland, defectively implemented land administration programs, disharmonious land administration laws, and the values of land for individuals are identified as underlined factors for the conflicts to happen. The culture of violence, disobedience to the law, the availability of small arms and light weapons, and other forms of social conflict are also risk factor by creating fragile peace among the members of the community. The conflict affects the economic, social, political, and psychological wellbeing of the study area residents. It poses economic, social, political, environmental and human security threats too. The effort made by the local government to combat the problem is not sufficient. It is imperative to revise and harmonize land administration laws if not changing some faultily legislated articles. Above all digital land registration and date administration should considered by governmental organizations and non-governmental organizations who are working in land administration sector. Immediate intervention is urged in saving severely devastating environment.
Empowering Girls' through Education as a Means of Promoting human Security in Ethiopia: A Case Study of Jewish Distribution Committee (JDC)
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Gezahegn, Enani; Adaye, Yonas (PhD)
Since the "UN Declaration of the Decade of Women" in 1975, attention and action on women's concerns have steadily increased and education, whether it be the form of consciousness-raising or skills acquisition, was one of the areas women's organizations, government agencies and international donor agencies focused on. The underlying assumption was that if women understood their conditions, knew their rights and learned skills traditionally denied to them, empowerment would follow, which is a means of providing women with human security, i.e. emancipating women from fear and want. Eighteen years have passed and there are different views as to whether such assumptions about increasing access to education and training have resulted in the tilting of the power balance in favor of women. It is against this backdrop that the Jewish Distribution Committee has engaged in a project to empower Ethiopian girls by providing them with financial assistance to pursue higher education so as to bridge the gap inherent in access to higher education prevalent in many African countries. This study therefore analyzes the programme which has seen the empowerment of more than a hundred girls from low, no income or destitute families and links it with human security. This thesis argues that educating such girls is providing them with human security by enabling them physically survive and empowering them to self-sustain. The study found that, the project has contributed to providing the basis for a good number of girls to attain education and subsequently obtained employment, while others are pursuing post graduate education. It found that while some of the beneficiaries have completed their Bachelor’s degrees a very competitive job market in Ethiopia has precluded them from getting jobs leading to frustration. The study concludes that, it’s a worthwhile project and provides valuable lessons for non-governmental organizations implementing gender empowerment programmes in Africa in general and Ethiopia in particular.
Ethio-Eritrea Conflict and the Role of Scholars and Intellectuals in the ‘Stalled’ Peace Process and Reconciliation
(Addis Ababa University, 2016-06) Habtom, Fireweini; Wendimu, Habtamu (Pro.)
Ethio-Eritrea conflict is going on with no peace no war scenario after the closure of the Algiers peace agreement and despite the mediation efforts of many local as well as international actors. The conceptual meaning of scholars and intellectuals as outlined by notable academicians including Max Weber, Edward Said and Foucault in relation to their general characteristics and roles in current society; the theoretical aspects of peace and the actors involved for achieving it; reconciliation in particular some of the methods for reaching at are discussed in detail. Moreover, Ethio-Eritrea in historical relation and the causes that brought the war of 1998-2000 is depicted in an overview form. Some Ethiopian as well as Eritrean scholars and intellectuals had been engaged earlier on to resolve the conflict peacefully in various ways. The fundamental hindrances facing them for their limited contribution in dealing with the current stalemate has been identified and discussed in much detail. The most significant are the fierce division that existed among them, their stiff argument charged with „ultra-nationalistic‟ perspectives and financial constraints. They can make possible contributions in the process of making peace and reconciliation between the two countries in the foreseeable future both individually and in group. Their contributions for peace can range from holding peace conferences, policy formulation and writing objectively up to advocating for peace. Reconstruction of the common history of Ethiopia and Eritrea and making a document, establishing reconciliation commission and being effective role models in advancing mutual deep understanding and cooperation can support reconciliation efforts. The peace strategy obtained from the interviewed data and published documents are also scrutinized. The international community particularly the UN, EU, and AU has to put rigorous diplomatic pressure on conflicting parties in order to break the stalemate. This is due to the fact that the incumbent political forces are antagonistic and the animosity among them is so entrenched. Integration among the people of the two countries is important. The previous achievements of scholars and intellectuals can be recognized in creating mutual understanding, dealing with many interlinked issues and their failures in areas of writing history and inability to acknowledge Eritrea as a sovereign nation state. Finally, in conclusion taking the good initiatives and peace activities conducted by different scholars, it is possible to avoid another devastative war and build on peaceful relations.

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