Diversity, Violence, and Recognition: How recognizing ethnic identity promotes peace [Paperback]

This book investigates governing institutions and their treatment of ethnic identity after violent conflict. It asks whether or not governments in countries experiencing violent conflict should recognize ethnic identities and how these choices affect peace. The book introduces the concept of ethnic recognition and explores it using global quantitative analysis and in-depth qualitative studies of Burundi, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. It ultimately finds promise in recognition--results that will be important to anyone interested in studying or promoting peace and development.When considering strategies to address violent conflict, scholars and policymakers debate the wisdom of recognizing versus avoiding reference to ethnic identities in government institutions. InDiversity, Violence, and Recognition, Elisabeth King and Cyrus Samii examine the reasons that governments choose to recognize ethnic identities and the consequences of such choices for peace. The authors introduce a theory on the merits and risks of recognizing ethnic groups in state institutions, pointing to the crucial role of ethnic demographics. Through a global quantitative analysis and in-depth case studies of Burundi, Rwanda, and Ethiopia, they find promise in recognition. Countries that adopt recognition go on to experience less violence, more economic vitality, and more democratic politics, but these effects depend on which ethnic group is in power. King and Samii's findings are important for scholars studying peace, democracy, and development, and practically relevant to policymakers attempting to make these concepts a reality.List of illustrationsList of AbbreviationsPart 1Chapter 1: IntroductionChapter 2: A Theory of RecognitionPart 2Chapter 3: Trends in Ethnic RecognitionChapter 4: Under what conditions is recognition adopted?Chapter 5: What are the effects of ethnic recognition on peace?Part 3Chapter 6: Recognition under Plurality l£Ð