From Autonomy to Merger

Abstract This study examines the transformation of governance for the Konso ethnic group within Ethiopia’s federal framework, focusing on the shift from recognized local autonomy to an administrative merger. Despite constitutional guarantees of self-governance for diverse ethnic communities, the Konso’s special Woreda status was effectively absorbed into a newly established regional zone in 2011. This merger has altered local governance structures, influencing access to services and impacting community development. By contrasting constitutional provisions with the on-the-ground experiences of the Konso, this research identifies critical gaps in the protection of minority rights. The findings offer insights into the challenges of reconciling federal principles with administrative realities and suggest directions for policy reform to better safeguard ethnic autonomy in Ethiopia.