1. World problems
  2. Ethnic conflict

Ethnic conflict

  • Violence against ethnic minorities
  • Minority unrest
  • Ethnic tensions
  • Inter-communal ethnic violence
  • Ethnic killings
  • Ethnic feuding

Nature

Conflict of a physical nature or in the form of overt discrimination on ethnic grounds (which may be interpreted to include racial, religious, linguistic or national dimensions). Ethnic conflict may be caused by cultural invasion and a lack of assimilation, maintaining ethnic and social differences and discrimination, by social inequality and by exploitation. Ethnic conflict is constantly exacerbated by mass poverty, limited access to resources, denial of human rights, lack of national integration and issues of international peace and security. It is at once the instrument of national integration and the darkhorse of internal disharmony and discord. Strikes, boycotts and other forms of disruption by minority groups in nations where there are a large number of different ethnic or minority groups threatens the stability of the nation. The national government is faced with the choice of ignoring the unrest which can result in the escalation of disruption and the discrediting of the party in power. It could use force to suppress the turmoil. In this case the source of the turmoil may go underground. In any case the disruption of the larger society by minorities is a detriment to the whole nation.

Incidence

Ethnic battlefields are found in the former Soviet Union, Yugoslavia and Czechoslovakia, and in the USA, Sri Lanka, Burma, Northern Ireland, Spain, South Africa and elsewhere. Fewer than 10 of the 165 nation states of the world are ethnically homogenous, the rest are potential ethnic powder kegs.

The tension between Gypsies and Slovaks has increased due to reports in the Slovak media on the situation following the flash floods in Jarovnice in June 1998. In the flooded communities, the mayors' co-ordinated aid and soldiers helped to clear away the damage. Approximately 600 Roma from Jarovnice lost their homes and had to be accommodated in military tents. Humanitarian aid, in particular drinking water, preserved foodstuffs, sanitary products, fabric, shoes and children toys were brought in by a number of Slovak as well as Czech foundations. The Roma, according to the press and television, only reluctantly and unwillingly helped in clearing away the damage and were waiting apathetically for a help from the state. According to the media, the Roma not only didn't want to work, but they were drinking their state benefits away in the pub, burning or selling the clothing they received from humanitarian aid, and when they realised that those who lost their property and roof over their heads would receive financial compensation from the state, they started to destroy what still remained of their homes. The other inhabitants accused the authorities of concentrating aid only on the Gypsies.

Claim

Ethnic conflict is a critical global issue that undermines peace, stability, and human rights. It fuels violence, displaces millions, and perpetuates cycles of hatred and revenge. The consequences extend beyond borders, destabilizing entire regions and hindering development. Ignoring this problem is not an option; we must confront the root causes, promote dialogue, and foster understanding among diverse communities. Only through concerted efforts can we hope to build a more harmonious and inclusive world.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

Ethnic conflict is often exaggerated and sensationalized, diverting attention from more pressing global issues like poverty, climate change, and health crises. While it may capture headlines, the reality is that most societies are increasingly multicultural and interdependent. Focusing on ethnic divisions only fuels division and resentment, hindering progress. Instead of emphasizing differences, we should celebrate our shared humanity and work collaboratively towards solutions that benefit everyone, rendering ethnic conflict a minor concern in the grand scheme.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Broader

Social conflict
Presentable
Aggression
Presentable

Narrower

Racial conflict
Unpresentable

Aggravates

Revenge
Presentable
Ethnocide
Presentable
Ethnic cleansing
Presentable
Civil war
Presentable

Aggravated by

Slavery
Excellent
Hero worship
Excellent
Colonialism
Excellent
Tribalism
Presentable
Caste system
Presentable
Ethnic prejudice
Unpresentable
Ethnic hatred
Unpresentable

Reduces

Reduced by

Revolution
Presentable

Related

Class conflict
Presentable
Sectarian violence
Unpresentable

Strategy

Feuding
Yet to rate

Value

Tension
Yet to rate
Feud
Yet to rate
Killing
Yet to rate
Violence
Yet to rate
Conflict
Yet to rate
Unrest
Yet to rate

Reference

Web link

SDG

Sustainable Development Goal #3: Good Health and Well-beingSustainable Development Goal #11: Sustainable Cities and CommunitiesSustainable Development Goal #15: Life on LandSustainable Development Goal #16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(C) Cross-sectoral problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Defence » Conflict
  • Psychology » Stress
  • Societal problems » Destruction
  • Societal problems » Maltreatment
  • Society » Communities
  • Society » Minority, indigenous groups
  • Society » Racial, ethnic groups
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    C3685
    DOCID
    11336850
    D7NID
    132709
    Last update
    May 20, 2022