Ethiopia at Constitutional Crossroads: In Search of a Fair and Durable Settlement is an essential collection of essays that examines the complex and pressing constitutional challenges facing Ethiopia today. Edited by prominent scholars, the book brings together fifteen thought-provoking chapters, each authored by leading Ethiopian experts and practitioners. The essays explore key constitutional issues including federalism, sovereignty, the separation of powers, citizenship, and the rights of ethnic and linguistic minorities, with a particular focus on Ethiopia's deeply entrenched diversity.
At the heart of this volume is a compelling discussion on trust-both horizontal trust among diverse ethnic groups and vertical trust in government institutions. The contributors argue that trust is not inherent but is shaped by institutions and their processes. The book highlights the importance of establishing a cooperative society and a fair, inclusive constitutional framework that can guide Ethiopia through its current political challenges and into a more stable, unified future.
The volume also addresses the contentious issue of secession, providing a nuanced analysis of Ethiopia's federal system and how it can best accommodate the demands of various ethnic groups while maintaining national unity. Drawing on comparative insights from other countries with diverse populations, such as India, the contributors offer valuable lessons on how Ethiopia might navigate its constitutional crossroads.
As Ethiopia stands on the precipice of crucial national dialogue, Ethiopia at Constitutional Crossroads serves as an indispensable resource for scholars, policymakers, and citizens alike. It offers fresh perspectives on building a constitutional system that celebrates the country's diversity while promoting unity, stability, and cooperation. This book is a critical step in shaping Ethiopia's future and fostering a political culture of inclusion, trust, and shared identity.
