Leiden University Scholarly Publications

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Alene, G.A. (2024)

The role of political elites in nation-building in contemporary Ethiopia, 1960-2020

Doctoral Thesis
This thesis is about the role of elites in Ethiopia's nation-building process, 1960-2020. The study aims to answer questions regarding the formation, manoeuvering and circulation of elites. Using a combination of theoretical notions on elite circulation and elite bargaining as conceptual framework, the research employed mixed methods, including in-depth interviews and document analysis. The trajectory of Ethiopian state formation is analyzed, highlighting elites' evolving nature and characteristics across different regimes. From the imperial regime via the Derg and EPRDF regimes to today’s PP rule, changes in power structures, ideologies, and socioeconomic dynamics have influenced elite composition and behaviour. Various dimensions and instruments of nation-building like economic integration, cultural integration, political centralization, and the establishment of effective state institutions are discussed. It is concluded that successive governments struggled to effectively...Show moreThis thesis is about the role of elites in Ethiopia's nation-building process, 1960-2020. The study aims to answer questions regarding the formation, manoeuvering and circulation of elites. Using a combination of theoretical notions on elite circulation and elite bargaining as conceptual framework, the research employed mixed methods, including in-depth interviews and document analysis. The trajectory of Ethiopian state formation is analyzed, highlighting elites' evolving nature and characteristics across different regimes. From the imperial regime via the Derg and EPRDF regimes to today’s PP rule, changes in power structures, ideologies, and socioeconomic dynamics have influenced elite composition and behaviour. Various dimensions and instruments of nation-building like economic integration, cultural integration, political centralization, and the establishment of effective state institutions are discussed. It is concluded that successive governments struggled to effectively utilize these instruments. It resulted in fragmentation, polarization, and authoritarianism, as key challenges were not met, including the failure to establish a compelling ideology and unifying national symbols, to provide overall public goods, to further civil society, or develop overarching language and education policies. The study proposes recommendations to address these challenges to nation-building, including elite reconfiguration, fostering consensus among ruling elites and stakeholders, and reducing the dominance of politicized ethno-elites.
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Elites and politics
Elite circulation
Elite bargain
Nation-building
Ethiopia
All authors
Alene, G.A.
Supervisor
Abbink, G.J.; Hosli, M.O.
Committee
Dekker, M.; Biezen, I.C.; Hout, W.; O'Malley, A.M.; Erk, J.G.
Qualification
Doctor (dr.)
Awarding Institution
Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden University
Date
2024-05-28
ISBN (print)
9789464735000