How did ethnic strife impact social cohesion?

Ethnic strife significantly undermined social cohesion, leading to divisions, conflicts, and a breakdown of societal unity.

Ethnic strife, which refers to conflicts and tensions between different ethnic groups, has a profound impact on social cohesion. Social cohesion is the sense of unity and shared identity within a society, which is crucial for maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity. When ethnic strife occurs, it disrupts this unity and shared identity, leading to divisions and conflicts within the society.

One of the primary ways ethnic strife impacts social cohesion is through the creation of 'us versus them' mentalities. This is when members of different ethnic groups view each other as enemies or rivals, rather than fellow citizens. This mentality can lead to a lack of trust and cooperation between different ethnic groups, which can undermine social cohesion. For example, in the former Yugoslavia, ethnic strife between Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks led to a brutal civil war and the breakdown of social cohesion.

Ethnic strife can also lead to the marginalisation of certain ethnic groups. This can occur when one ethnic group dominates the political and economic structures of a society, leading to the exclusion and discrimination of other ethnic groups. This marginalisation can lead to feelings of resentment and alienation among the marginalised groups, further undermining social cohesion. For instance, in Rwanda, the marginalisation of the Tutsi minority by the Hutu majority led to ethnic tensions and ultimately, a genocide.

Furthermore, ethnic strife can lead to the fragmentation of society along ethnic lines. This can occur when ethnic groups form their own separate communities, institutions, and even political entities, leading to a lack of interaction and integration between different ethnic groups. This fragmentation can further exacerbate ethnic tensions and conflicts, undermining social cohesion. For example, in Northern Ireland, the ethnic strife between Protestants and Catholics led to the formation of separate communities and institutions, which has hindered social cohesion.

In conclusion, ethnic strife has a significant impact on social cohesion. It can lead to divisions, conflicts, and a breakdown of societal unity, which can have serious consequences for the stability and prosperity of a society. Therefore, addressing ethnic strife is crucial for promoting social cohesion and peace.