Post-Conflict Peacebuilding by the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia (Irce): The Case of Agaro

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Date

2022-06

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Addis nAbaba University

Abstract

The focus of this research is assessing post-conflict peacebuilding by the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia (IRCE) in Jimma Zone, Agaro Woreda. It mainly intends to study the role of IRCE in Jimma peacebuilding program, the mechanisms applied, examining its effectiveness and functionality, the challenges and strengths of the peacebuilding program. It also studies the actions undertaken to enhance religious tolerance and to resolve conflicts between Christian and Muslim societies. It explores theoretical developments on peace and conflict as well as religion as a factor of conflict and peace. Furthermore, conceptual frameworks of peacebuilding, faith-based peacebuilding, faith-based civil societies, and mechanisms applied in the process are discussed. It uses qualitative research design, where the selected case study is an exploratory and single instrumental case. Non-probability sampling is selected as a sampling technique where purposive sampling and snow ball sampling are used to determine the sample size. Primary and secondary sources of data are used in the research, where the data collection instruments are Focus Group Discussion and Key Informant Interviews for primary data. The findings from the data analysis are; development of inter-faith organizations such as IRCE, partial restoration of former co-existence, unsatisfactory dialogue platform for victims and youths. Challenges incurred include skepticism of religious leaders, lack of public trust, financial constraints, legal limitations and exclusion of traditional conflict resolution techniques. Whereas, its strength includes local ownership of the post-conflict peacebuilding program, the integration of religious institutions for conflict resolution and a relatively good co-existing condition compared to the damage incurred. In conclusion if it is properly designed and managed post-conflict peace building program plays a significant role for ensuring sustainable peace, tolerance and social co-existence.

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Keywords

faith-based peacebuilding, dialogue, faith-based organization, conflict resolution, religious tolerance]

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