Subnational Constitutional Space and Ethnic Accommodation: A Comparative Analysis of Ethiopian Regions

Subnational constitutional space is increasingly recognised as a mechanism of managing diversity in multiethnic federations. Yet comparative analyses remain limited. This article examines Ethiopia’s regional constitutions to assess how they structure ethnic empowerment, self-rule, and representation. Findings reveal significant variation across regions. In regions where one nationality forms a supermajority, constitutions entrench dominant-group self-governance while marginalising others. In contrast, multiethnic regions cluster diverse groups into local governments, creating both opportunities for inclusion and new exclusions. By transforming some ethnic minorities into local political majorities, regional constitutions illuminate both the potential and the pitfalls of subnational constitutionalism in ethnically diverse federations.<br/><br/>