Thread:
"Social Capital and its Role in Traditional Conflict Resolution in Ethiopia: The case of Inter-Religious conflict in Jimma zone state". A thesis by student Abiy Ahmed submitted as part of fulfilment for his PhD. 1/7

The young Abiy wrote:
#Ethiopia #Eritrea #Tigray

" .. violence should not be dealt exclusively with reactive means." and continues to point out the underlying causes, "Instead, structural causes of extremism such as intolerance, social marginalisation, and economic inequalities must be tackled .." 2/7

He eloquently explained the expected outcome for addressing the root causes: prevent translation violence, regional instability and community tensions. Abyi ahmed, in his thesis, emphasises the importance of social capital for preserving peace. 3/7

It is not surprising then that many observers are bewildered by what is currently happening in #Ethiopia. However, Abyi gave a hint in his thesis on how he regards law enforcement as a partner approach to resolve conflict. Countering Violent Extremism, he argues .. 4/7

" ... is likely to be most effective when characterised by a partnership approach involving law enforcement, intelligence agencies ..." He gives an example of Italy invading #Ethiopia to explain how social capital was enhanced to collectively fight against invasion. 5/7

However, he argues, intra-state conflict can weaken social cohesion and further perpetuates violent conflict.
Is Abiy Ahmed using the current conflict in Tigray to unify Ethiopia by gaining social capital? 6/7

Time will tell whether his experiment of social capital will lead to a united Ethiopia or a divided one.
Researchers will more likely cite what is currently happening in #Ethiopia than his PhD thesis to understand causes and resolution of conflict in Ethiopia in the future. 7/7