IS FEDERALISM A BETTER PANACEA FOR ETHNIC CONFLICTS IN MULTI-ETHNIC SOCIETIES

Abstract

This study explores the roots causes of ethno religious conflicts in multi-ethnic federations and examined counter views that federalism is a workable governmental system for people with diverse traditions. We have found that federalism does not always serve as a panacea for ethnic conflicts in multi-ethnic societies. On the contrary we have found that federalism has perpetuated tensions in many federations. The study concludes that though federalism has failed to fulfil its promises in many federations, yet it will still continue to serve as a better option for surmounting multi-ethnic conflicts in many federations across the globe despite its difficulty and complexity. We recommend the need for justice, fairness and respect of each other.