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Environment, Society and the State in Western Eritrea

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 March 2011

Alexander Naty
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Abstract

This article examines the relationship between the environment, society and the state in the Gash–Setit region of western Eritrea. Through an analysis of the environmental narrative of the local communities and the state, it explores the factors that have contributed to the environmental crisis in the region. These factors include population resettlement, the agricultural development policy of the state, war, drought and the collapse of traditional management of the environment. The combined effects have created environmental stresses which have far-reaching implications for state–society and inter-community relations. The analysis draws on historical, cultural and political dimensions in seeking to understand relations between the environment, society and the state.

Résumé

Cet article examine la relation entre l'environnement, la société et l'Etat dans la région de Gash-Setit, dans l'Ouest de l'Erythrée. A travers le récit environnemental des communautés locales et de l'Etat, il explore les facteurs qui ont contribué à la crise environnementale dans la région. Ces facteurs incluent la réinstallation de populations, la politique de développement agricole de l'Etat, la guerre, la sécheresse et l'effondrement de la gestion traditionnelle de l'environnement. Les effets combinés ont créé des agressions contre l'environnement dont les implications sont considérables pour les relations Etat-société et intercommunautaires. L'analyse se fonde sur les dimensions historique, culturelle et politique pour chercher à comprendre les relations entre l'environnement, la société et l'Etat.

Type
Research Article
Information
Africa , Volume 72 , Issue 4 , November 2002 , pp. 569 - 597
Copyright
Copyright © International African Institute 2002

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