This study deals with indigenous conflict resolution mechanism in Rural Alamata woreda specifically in the institution called Mezard exercised by the Raya people. The study was aimed at examining the Mezard indigenous institution of conflict resolution. The research design employed for this study was case study research design. To this end purposive sampling design was used, employing 24 total sample sizes. Its composition was from indigenous judges, court leaders, to explore the sustainability of the institution, the enforceability, strengths and weaknesses and its role in maintaining peace and stability in the area. This study was conducted using unstructured interview as the main data collection instrument along with focus group discussion employing open ended questions to supplement the data gathered from the key informants. Accordingly, the study finding shows sustainability of the institution is being in formidable challenges, this is mainly because of its less attention on transferring the practice to the young generation and some forces of modernization, etc. With regard to enforceability, the decisions passed by the institution are found to be high in being accepted by the community of the study area. In order to integrate Mezard indigenous conflict resolution mechanism with the formal court legalizing their role and defining their jurisdiction is so important. In addition advancing affirmative action, increasing the income of women by creating new job opportunities, give chance the youth to decide on their matters continually, raising finance generated from the community, etc can help the sustainability of the Mezard institution of conflict resolution.
Key words: Erq, indigenous conflict resolution, Mezard, Tabia, Wonz
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Chapter One: Introduction
- 1.1 Background of the Study
- 1.2 Statement of the Problem
- 1.3 Research Questions
- 1.4 Objective of the Study
- 1.5 Significance of the Study
- 1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study
- 1.7 Definition of Concepts
- Chapter Two: Review of Related Literature
- 2.1 The Concept of Conflict
- 2.2 Indigenous Conflict Resolution
- 2.2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages of Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
- 2.2.2 Actors in Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanism
- 2.2.3 Sustainability of Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanism
- 2.2.4 Enforceability of Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanism
- 2.3 African Traditional Institutions of Conflict Resolution
- Chapter Three: Research Methodology
- 3.1 Site Selection and Description of the Study Area
- 3.2 Data Type and Source
- 3.3 Research Design and Strategy
- 3.4 Sampling Technique and Procedure
- 3.5 Data Collection and Instruments
- 3.6 Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Chapter Four: Results and Discussions
- 4.1 Sources and Type of Conflicts in Rural Alamata Woreda
- 4.2 Historical Foundation and Development of Mezard Institution
- 4.3 Procedure of the Mezard Institution
- 4.4 Enforceability of the Mezard Institution of Conflict Resolution
- 4.5 Relation between Mezard and Formal Court
- 4.6 Sustainability of the Mezard Institution of Conflict Resolution
- 4.7 Strengths and Weaknesses
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This study aims to examine the Mezard indigenous institution of conflict resolution in rural Alamata Woreda, Tigray Region, Ethiopia. The research investigates the sustainability and enforceability of the Mezard system, its strengths and weaknesses, and its interaction with the formal court system. The study employs a case study design with a purposive sample of informants.
- Sustainability of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms
- Enforceability of Mezard's decisions within the community
- The relationship between Mezard and the formal court system
- Strengths and weaknesses of the Mezard institution
- The role of Mezard in maintaining peace and stability
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
Chapter One: Introduction: This chapter introduces the study, providing background information on indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, specifically focusing on the Mezard institution in rural Alamata Woreda. It outlines the research problem, questions, objectives, significance, scope, limitations, and key concepts. The chapter sets the stage for the subsequent chapters by clearly defining the research focus and methodology.
Chapter Two: Review of Related Literature: This chapter presents a comprehensive review of existing literature on conflict, indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, and their application within African traditional institutions. It examines the advantages and disadvantages, actors involved, sustainability, and enforceability of such mechanisms, providing a theoretical framework for understanding the Mezard institution within a broader context. The chapter explores various perspectives on traditional conflict resolution and its relevance in contemporary society.
Chapter Three: Research Methodology: This chapter details the research design and methods employed in the study. It describes the selection and characteristics of the study area, the data types and sources, the sampling techniques, data collection instruments (unstructured interviews and focus group discussions), and data analysis procedures. The chapter justifies the chosen methods and their appropriateness for addressing the research questions.
Chapter Four: Results and Discussions: This chapter presents the findings of the study, analyzing the sources and types of conflict in the study area, the historical development of the Mezard institution, its procedures, enforceability, relationship with the formal court, sustainability, and overall strengths and weaknesses. The chapter integrates the data collected through interviews and focus group discussions, providing detailed insights into the functioning of the Mezard institution and its impact on the community. The analysis explores the challenges and opportunities associated with this indigenous conflict resolution system.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Indigenous conflict resolution, Mezard, Ethiopia, Tigray Region, rural conflict, sustainability, enforceability, traditional justice, formal justice, community peace, case study.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this study?
This study examines the Mezard indigenous institution of conflict resolution in rural Alamata Woreda, Tigray Region, Ethiopia. It focuses on the system's sustainability, enforceability, strengths, weaknesses, and interaction with the formal court system.
What are the key research questions addressed in this study?
The research investigates the sustainability and enforceability of the Mezard system, its strengths and weaknesses, and its relationship with the formal court system. It also explores the role of Mezard in maintaining peace and stability within the community.
What methodology was used in this research?
The study employs a case study design with a purposive sample of informants. Data was collected through unstructured interviews and focus group discussions. Data analysis involved interpreting the collected information to understand the functioning of the Mezard institution.
What are the key themes explored in the study?
Key themes include the sustainability of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, the enforceability of Mezard's decisions, the relationship between Mezard and the formal court system, the strengths and weaknesses of the Mezard institution, and its role in maintaining peace and stability.
What are the main chapters of the study?
The study is organized into four chapters: Chapter One (Introduction), Chapter Two (Review of Related Literature), Chapter Three (Research Methodology), and Chapter Four (Results and Discussions).
What does Chapter One cover?
Chapter One introduces the study, providing background information on indigenous conflict resolution, the research problem, questions, objectives, significance, scope, limitations, and key concepts related to the Mezard institution.
What does Chapter Two cover?
Chapter Two reviews existing literature on conflict, indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms, and their application in African traditional institutions. It examines the advantages, disadvantages, actors, sustainability, and enforceability of such mechanisms, providing a theoretical framework for understanding the Mezard institution.
What does Chapter Three cover?
Chapter Three details the research design and methods, including site selection, data types and sources, sampling techniques, data collection instruments (unstructured interviews and focus group discussions), and data analysis procedures.
What does Chapter Four cover?
Chapter Four presents the findings, analyzing conflict sources and types, the historical development of the Mezard institution, its procedures, enforceability, relationship with the formal court, sustainability, and strengths and weaknesses. It integrates data from interviews and focus group discussions to provide insights into the institution's functioning and impact.
What are the keywords associated with this study?
Keywords include: Indigenous conflict resolution, Mezard, Ethiopia, Tigray Region, rural conflict, sustainability, enforceability, traditional justice, formal justice, community peace, and case study.
What is the overall significance of this study?
The study contributes to the understanding of indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms in Ethiopia, specifically the Mezard institution. It examines its effectiveness, challenges, and potential for contributing to sustainable peace and stability in rural communities.
- Quote paper
- Yonas Berhe (Author), 2012, An Assessment of Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanism of Mezard in Rural Alamata Woreda, Tigray National Regional State, Ethiopia, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/214145
