Ethnic Relations and Conflict Resolution in Northern Ethiopi

The main purpose of this study was assessing and exploring the relations between the people of Rayya Azebo and their neighboring Afar society.In addition, it tried to examine their traditional conflict resolution mechanisms. In doing so, qualitative research method, mainly with anthropological and to some extent historical orientations, were employed. Thus, the study came up with the following findings.The long past history of relations characterized by conflict and blood feud due to...
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The main purpose of this study was assessing and exploring the relations between the people of Rayya Azebo and their neighboring Afar society.In addition, it tried to examine their traditional conflict resolution mechanisms. In doing so, qualitative research method, mainly with anthropological and to some extent historical orientations, were employed. Thus, the study came up with the following findings.The long past history of relations characterized by conflict and blood feud due to various traditions, however, due to demographic, and political as well as changes in the culture, way of life and the balance of power between the two communities, the past conflict ridden relations are now changed.The existence of traditional institutions like the Gereb, the church, the duberties, and the sheiks, and their role in resolving any types of conflict is immense. in addition economic interdependency,inter-ethnic marriage and bond-friendship contribute a lot in maintaining peaceful relations and interaction between the two ethnic groups. Also the most familiar mechanisms of conflict resolution in the area consist of local mediation, compensation and reconciliation.