Navigating Conservation and Livelihoods: A Critical Examination of Protected Areas in Ethiopia

This paper critically examines the interplay between conservation efforts and local livelihoods within the context of protected areas in Ethiopia. As the country strives to preserve its rich biodiversity, the designation of protected areas has often led to socio-economic tensions, particularly for rural and indigenous communities who rely on these lands for their sustenance. Drawing on empirical studies, policy analysis, and stakeholder perspectives, this study explores the extent to which conservation policies have considered the rights and needs of local populations. It highlights the challenges of forced evictions, restricted access to resources, and the marginalization of traditional land-use practices. The paper further assesses alternative conservation models such as community-based natural resource management and integrated conservation-development projects (ICDPs), evaluating their potential to balance ecological preservation with human development. Recommendations are offered to inform more equitable and sustainable conservation strategies in Ethiopia.