Assessing Constitutional Protection of Ethnic Minority's Rights at the Local Level: Focus on Former Snnpr Constitution
Keywords:
Minority Rights, Ethnic Federalism, Self-Determination, SNNPR, Ethiopia, Constitutional ImplementationAbstract
Ethiopia's ethnic diversity necessitates robust constitutional protections for minority rights. This study evaluates the implementation of constitutional safeguards for ethnic minorities in the former Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples' Region (SNNPR), Ethiopia. Through qualitative analysis of regional constitutions, institutional frameworks, and practical case studies, the research examines gaps between constitutional guarantees and on-the-ground realities. Findings reveal that despite constitutional recognition of self-determination, language, and cultural rights, ethnic minorities face challenges in political representation, administrative autonomy, and language use due to dominant-group dominance in merged administrative zones. The study concludes with recommendations for inclusive power-sharing, reserved political seats, and strengthened local autonomy to bridge implementation gaps.
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