Ethiopia

Event Details

John Harbeson, a professor from numerous universities, gives a forum on Ethiopia. Harbeson argues that Ethiopia is an African empire, which is unique in its nation state status. He describes the recent pressures on Ethiopia, both internal and external. Harbeson identifies the external pressures as from the West encouraging democratic and market reforms. He identifies the internal pressures as being akin to the Eritrean independence movement that stemmed from Selassie?s corruption and Italian occupation. He continues to explain the rise of military rule in Ethiopia and its eventual removal from power in 1991. He concludes by cautioning that Ethopia could become an African version of the Balkans. During the questioning session, Harbeson addresses the missed opportunities of settling the Eritrean separatist movement, Selassie?s legacy, the presence of Marxism in the Mengistu leadership, the Eritrean independence movement?s effect on the rest of Africa, Islamic fundamentalism in Ethiopia and Somalia?s expansion.