The Scars of War: A Multidimensional Analysis of Intra-Community Conflicts in Postwar Tigray, Ethiopia

Abstract

This manuscript presents a comprehensive multidimensional analysis of postwar intracommunity conflicts in Tigray, Ethiopia, examining their profound socioeconomic and political ramifications following the recent conflict. Utilizing a rigorous concurrent exploratory qualitative design involving KIIs, PSIs, and FGDs, the study reveals a volatile sociopolitical landscape. Findings highlight a severe erosion of trust in state institutions, security forces, and traditional conflict resolution frameworks, fueled by perceived governance deficits and corruption. Social fragmentation is dramatically intensified, significantly exacerbated by war-induced displacement and deepening political polarization. Acute competition for critical resources, notably land, emerges as a pivotal conflict driver, compounded by economic hardship and non-transparent resource governance. Frail governance structures, plagued by corruption and a deficit of accountability, further erode public confidence and obstruct effective conflict resolution. The study emphasizes the critical need for a holistic peacebuilding architecture, mandating the restoration of institutional legitimacy through transparent governance reforms, equitable resource distribution policies, and the active promotion of social cohesion. Addressing these multifaceted challenges, which are direct consequences of the recent conflict, requires concerted stakeholder action and evidence-based policy formulation to foster stability and enhance community resilience in the region.