Cross-Border Conflicts and Regional Stability: Examining Refugee-Host Community Relations in Gambella, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the cross-border conflicts and their impact on the regional stability of Gambella, Ethiopia. It focused on the driving factors of conflicts between refugees and the host community in Gambella. The findings made a significant contribution to the understanding and differentiation of the driving factors behind protracted conflicts between refugees and host communities in Gambella. This study used a qualitative approach and adopted a case study research design. This was chosen to obtain information concerning the past and current situation of refugee and host community conflicts in Gambella. In addition, to provide an in-depth understanding of the negative impacts of refugees on the host community and vice versa. This was achieved by examining economic, political, and other aspects. The researcher used a purposive sampling method. The study employed social identity theory (SIT). The theory was chosen to address the ethnic and social differences between the host community and refugees. The research findings were threefold. First, this study found that natural resources, politics, and cultural differences have greatly affected the relationship between refugees and the host community in Gambella. Secondly, the research showed that the Ethiopian Nuer influence their Nuer kinsfolk in the refugee camps by recruiting them in Ethiopian affairs. Because they shared the same culture and language. This has also contributed to disrupting the peace in Gambella. Thirdly, the research revealed that all stakeholders (Government, NGOs, and religious institutions) have made efforts to resolve the conflict between the host community and refugees. However, their approaches have not contributed to a fruitful end. Therefore, this study will benefit the government of Gambella, NGOs, and other humanitarian organizations in Gambella through the different perspectives the study possesses. Furthermore, it will also help to re-evaluate approaches employed in the cross- border conflict between refugees and the host community in Gambella. The study also recommends a critical evaluation of the causes of conflict between refugees and host communities in Gambella. Additionally, to embrace cooperation and harmony between refugees and hosts. Finally, by granting restorative justice to families who suffered cross-border violence and refugee-host conflicts in the region.