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Ethiopia: A Country in Crisis
Ethiopia has been embroiled in a prolonged militarized conflict since 2019, following Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s rise to power. The conflicts primarily involve government forces, sub-state, and non-state actors, with notable instances including the Tigray war and ongoing conflicts in the Oromia and Amhara regions. Despite a peace deal between the Ethiopian federal government and the TPLF that ended the two-year war, security issues continue to persist in the Tigray region as implementation challenges hinder progress.
In Oromia and Amhara, conflicts between government forces and armed groups like the Oromo Liberation Army and Fano have disrupted socio-economic activities and endangered civilian safety. The proliferation of armed conflicts across the country has increased significantly, with incidents like the seizure of a small kebele by an armed group in Southern Ethiopia leading to violent confrontations.
A report by the Ethiopia Peace Observatory revealed that 1018 battles took place in Ethiopia between April 2023 and April 2024, highlighting the severity of the security crisis. Experts attribute the conflicts to various factors, including a lack of inclusive political structures, historical grievances, and ethnic diversity issues.
Competing ethno-nationalisms, unresolved historical grievances, socio-economic marginalization, and governance failures have further exacerbated the security crisis. The mismanagement of ethnic diversity has led to power struggles, creating deep societal divisions and perpetuating conflict. Socio-economic disparities, land disputes, corruption, and lack of accountability have eroded public trust in the government, fueling armed groups and hindering peace efforts.
To address the security crisis, experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that tackles historical grievances, power distribution, and ethnic identity in politics. They stress the importance of ending violent conflicts, initiating inclusive national dialogues, and promoting reconciliation to achieve lasting peace and stability in Ethiopia.
It is clear that Ethiopia’s path to stability and prosperity requires wise leadership, real inclusive democratic policies, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict. By prioritizing peacebuilding efforts and fostering a cohesive national identity, Ethiopia can overcome its current challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.
