2023-04-06 15:29:23
Combatting Supremacist Ideologies: A Crucial Priority for Sustainable Peace and Prosperity in Ethiopia
(By G, K. E, CA), 05/04/2023
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As a native of the Horn of Africa, I have seen firsthand the insidious effects of supremacist ideology in Ethiopia. Prejudice, discrimination, and bigotry, which stem from such ideologies, have inflicted immeasurable pain and trauma upon society as a whole.
During the Tigray war, a few right-wing politicians in Ethiopia spoke out against the war crimes perpetrated against civilians in the region and expressed their sympathy for the Tigrayan people. I commend them for their opposition to the war and their genuine indignation at the atrocities committed. However, despite their stance on the war, these politicians have continued to oppose the Ethiopian constitution, including the provision on the equality of nations, nationalities, and peoples (Article 39). They continue to advocate for the abolition of the TPLF and OLF, as well as the constitutional provisions guaranteeing federalism, and they reject the constitutional recognition of the right of nations to self-determination within the Federal Republic of Ethiopia.
Since the signing of the Pretoria peace agreement between the federal government and the TPLF, these few politicians have quickly aligned themselves with the hardcore of far-right politics. While some people on the progressive side are shocked, I am not surprised at all. Their animosity towards the TPLF is rooted in the TPLF's stance on self-determination for nations and nationalities within Ethiopia, and at the heart of their opposition is their disdain for Article 39, which provides nations with the right to self-determination.
So, what is the driving force behind their opposition to the principle of equality for nations and nationalities? The answer is straightforward: they believe in the superiority of certain groups based on their own criteria. Ultimately, their motivation is driven by an alliance with supremacist ideology.
To create a better world, we must confront supremacist ideologies head-on and commit ourselves to building inclusive institutions that provide equal opportunities for all members of society. This requires us to dismantle extractive political and economic institutions that perpetuate supremacist ideology and promote institutions that foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and social mobility. Only then can we ensure sustainable development and a prosperous future for all.
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