08/08/2025
“The Broken Shield: How Ethnic Politics Is Undermining Ethiopia’s Historic Unity”
A Nation Forged in Unity, Now Threatened by Division
Few nations in the world boast a history as ancient, proud, and sovereign as Ethiopia. Known as the Cradle of Civilization and the Land of Origins, Ethiopia is not only home to one of the oldest Christian traditions and indigenous alphabets, but also one of the most resilient political heritages on the African continent.
Throughout history, Ethiopia has faced countless challenges—foreign invasions, internal dynastic struggles, and ideological upheavals. Yet, in the face of these adversities, the Ethiopian people rose above ethnic and linguistic differences to defend their homeland. The most profound example of this unity in action came during the Battle of Adwa in 1896, where Ethiopians from every corner of the empire joined forces to defeat a modern European army.
Under the leadership of Emperor Menelik II, and the military genius of Empress Taytu Betul, Ethiopian forces—including Amhara, Oromo, Tigrayan, Gurage, and other ethnic groups—delivered a crushing defeat to Italian colonizers. This battle not only preserved Ethiopia’s independence but also became a global symbol of Black resistance and Pan-African pride.
Renowned African-American scholar W.E.B. Du Bois once wrote of Adwa:
> “The victory of Ethiopia over Italy was not simply an African triumph—it was a victory for dignity, hope, and freedom.”
Such moments of unity are not limited to Adwa. In 1935, when Fascist Italy under Mussolini invaded Ethiopia again, Ethiopians again rallied to resist the occupation, leading to a five-year struggle until liberation in 1941 with the support of Ethiopian patriots (Arbegnoch) and allied forces. Again, no one asked who was Oromo or Amhara or Tigrayan—the only question was, “Will you fight for Ethiopia?”
Ethnic Federalism: A Political Experiment Gone Wrong
Fast-forward to 1991. After the fall of the Marxist Derg regime, the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), led by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), introduced a new constitution in 1995. This document enshrined “ethnic federalism”, dividing the country into regions primarily based on ethnic identity, each with its own flag, language, and even the right to secede under Article 39.
The intention was to address historical grievances and promote self-determination. However, in practice, it institutionalized division and created parallel ethnic homelands within what should have been a united republic. Politicians quickly learned to exploit ethnic sentiment for power. Instead of building trust and inclusivity, the system entrenched suspicion, rivalry, and conflict.
Ethnic identity became a political currency, often at the expense of national unity. Intercommunal violence, border disputes, and retaliatory attacks became widespread—from Benishangul-Gumuz to Oromia, Amhara, Tigray, and Sidama.
"Modern Chaos: Internal Strife Within a Nation"
Today, Ethiopia is more fragmented than ever before:
1. The Tigray War (2020–2022) cost hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions.
2. Armed conflict in Amhara and Oromia regions continues to undermine peace and governance.
3. Ethnic militias and regional security forces operate beyond federal control, often clashing violently.
The dream of a unified Ethiopia is increasingly viewed by some elites as an outdated, even oppressive, concept.
What was once a proud shield of unity is now shattered by parochialism and hatred. The same people whose ancestors marched together at Adwa and resisted fascism are now turning against one another—over land, language, and ethnic supremacy.
"Echoes from the Past: Lessons in Nationhood"
Ethiopia’s history teaches that the nation survives only when its people rise above ethnic divisions. The Zemene Mesafint (Era of the Princes)—a period from the mid-18th to mid-19th century—serves as a cautionary tale. During that time, the central government collapsed, and regional warlords ruled autonomously based on ethnic and familial alliances. It was a century marked by chaos, civil war, and foreign interference.
It took the vision and military strength of Emperor Tewodros II, followed by Emperors Yohannes IV and Menelik II, to reforge the Ethiopian state and restore central authority. They understood that a fragmented Ethiopia was a vulnerable Ethiopia.
History is now at risk of repeating itself. Today’s ethnic politics mirrors the same tribalism that once nearly destroyed the empire.
"The Way Forward: Reclaiming Ethiopian Identity"
Ethiopians must now ask themselves: Are we the heirs of Adwa or the descendants of division?
Recognizing ethnic diversity is important. But using it as the sole basis for political organization has proven catastrophic. It is time for:
Constitutional reform to remove secessionist provisions and promote citizenship-based federalism.
Reinvestment in civic education, teaching the next generation about their shared history, not just their ethnic origins.
Inclusive political leadership that rises above tribal interests and speaks for all Ethiopians.
National reconciliation processes, to address grievances without weaponizing identity.
The legacy of unity is not a myth—it is documented in the blood, sacrifice, and dignity of generations past. That legacy must be reclaimed, not erased.
"Conclusion: One Ethiopia, or None"
Ethiopia has stood the test of time—defeating colonizers, enduring famine, and weathering ideological storms. But the greatest threat it now faces comes from within. Ethnic-based politics has become a poison in the veins of a once-strong nation.
It is not too late to change course. But it will require courage, wisdom, and a return to the values that built the Ethiopian state: solidarity, sacrifice, and a shared vision of destiny.
Let us not allow this ancient land—so admired for its resilience—to crumble under the weight of division. Let us instead rebuild the shield of unity, for the sake of those who came before us, and for the generations still to come.
