Sustainable integration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ethiopia: exploring intentions about post-conflict resettlement choices

Abstract

AbstractThis article discusses the role of ethnic identity in triggering ethnic-based conflicts and the subsequent mass displacement of people from their habitual areas of residence to areas where people with similar ethnic identities are found. It also explores how ethnic identity shapes internally displaced persons’ (IDP) decisions regarding the choice of post-displacement resettlement situations–that is, return, local integration, or resettlement. The study relied on qualitative data collected using interview, observation, and case study methods from IDPs relocated to temporary camps in southern Ethiopia. Accordingly, the results of the study highlighted that all of the interviewees in this study expressed their intention not to return; instead, they preferred to be locally integrated into the host communities they perceive to possess similar ethnic identities. The findings of the study imply that the Ethiopian government should work closely with local authorities in the areas of host communities and other partners to create favorable conditions for IDPs’ sustainable local integration, including creating and expanding employment opportunities and providing land and other essential productive resources, as stipulated in the Kampala Convention.

Keywords

• Ethnic conflict
• ethnic identity
• internal displacement
• internally displaced persons (IDPs)
• Kampala convention
• sustainable reintegration