Ethno-nationalism

Definition

Ethno-nationalism is a form of nationalism that prioritizes the interests and culture of a particular ethnic group, often leading to the belief that this group should have its own sovereign nation-state. It connects deeply with identity, as it emphasizes the shared history, language, and traditions of a specific ethnicity. This form of nationalism can drive movements for self-determination and autonomy, while also contributing to conflicts and tensions when differing ethnic groups vie for control or recognition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethno-nationalism played a significant role in the breakup of Yugoslavia during the 1990s, leading to violent conflicts marked by ethnic tensions.
2. In Rwanda, ethno-nationalist sentiments between Hutus and Tutsis culminated in a genocide in 1994, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands.
3. Ethno-nationalism can foster a strong sense of community and belonging among members of an ethnic group but can also lead to exclusion and violence against others.
4. The rise of ethno-nationalism has been linked to globalization and the perception that national identity is under threat from multiculturalism and immigration.
5. As the world continues to change, there are growing concerns about how ethno-nationalist movements may challenge the traditional nation-state system and contribute to global instability.

Review Questions

• How does ethno-nationalism influence conflicts between different ethnic groups?
  • Ethno-nationalism can heighten tensions between different ethnic groups by fostering a sense of superiority or entitlement among members of one group over another. This often leads to competition for resources, political power, or territorial claims, which can escalate into violent conflicts. The case studies of Yugoslavia and Rwanda illustrate how deeply ingrained ethno-nationalist sentiments can spark severe confrontations that result in significant human suffering.
• In what ways did ethno-nationalism contribute to the disintegration of Yugoslavia in the 1990s?
  • Ethno-nationalism was a driving force behind the disintegration of Yugoslavia as various ethnic groups sought independence from a centralized state that was perceived as favoring one group over others. The rise of nationalist leaders fueled ethnic divisions, leading to war crimes and atrocities committed against rival ethnic communities. Ultimately, the conflict reshaped the political landscape in the Balkans, creating new nation-states along ethnic lines.
• Evaluate the potential future implications of rising ethno-nationalist movements on the global nation-state system.
  • The rise of ethno-nationalist movements poses significant challenges to the current nation-state system by undermining traditional notions of state sovereignty and territorial integrity. As these movements gain momentum, they may lead to increased fragmentation of states along ethnic lines, potentially resulting in civil unrest or war. Moreover, this trend could challenge global cooperation efforts, complicate international relations, and heighten xenophobia and intolerance, thus creating a more divided world.

Related terms

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests of a particular nation, often promoting the idea of national sovereignty and identity.

Self-determination: The right of a group to determine its own political status and pursue its economic, social, and cultural development.

Ethnic Cleansing: The deliberate removal or extermination of an ethnic group from a particular territory, often associated with violent conflicts driven by ethno-nationalist sentiments.