International Conference on "Ethnic Mobilization in Africa" at the Copperbelt University, September 16th

Organized under the theme of "Ethnic Mobilization in Africa", the conference provided participants with a platform to reflect on the relevance of ethnic identities for politics in selected African countries. Guest researchers discussed the relevance of ethnic identities in regulating access to the state, the linkage between perceived and objective inequalities and their respective impact on ethnic mobilization and conflict. The role of state and societal institutions in preventing violence was also examined.

Furthermore, Zambian researchers took the opportunity of the conference to discuss how ethnicity shaped the recent presidential and parliamentary elections. Specifically, they examined the ethnic cleavages apparent in voting patterns. Representatives of local NGOs were also given the opportunity to share their experience in monitoring the elections. Reviewing the electoral campaign, they particularly highlighted the presence of a prevalent bias in the public media.

In addition to scholars from the Dag Hammarskjöld Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies, the conference brought together R4D researchers from Egypt (American University in Cairo), Ethiopia (Institute for Peace and Security Studies), Ghana (CDD), and Switzerland (University of Geneva). The conference also benefited from the presence of a researcher from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (University of Lubumbashi), and representatives from the Southern African Center for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) – Mufulira and the Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) – Kitwe.

The conference attracted a large audience, which included representatives of political parties, NGOs and other local civil society groups. In particular, two traditional chiefs – Nkana and Mushili – were in attendance. In addition, students and lecturers from different local universities and colleges in Zambia were invited: Mukuba University, Copperstone University, Catholic University, Zambian Open University, United Church of Zambia University College, Kitwe College of Education, Mufulira College of Education, Mindolo Ecumenical Centre, and the host Copperbelt University, among others.

The conference was organized within the framework of the R4D Project on Ethnic Power Relations and Conflict. For more information, please refer to the Download official program (PDF, 380 KB).