Ethnic Violence - Probable Solutions

Probable Solutions

Ethnic violence being particularly violent, there are numerous theories to preventing it, or once it starts, ending it. Yaneer Bar-Yam of the New England Complex Systems Institute suggests that both clear boundaries or thorough mixing can reduce violence, citing Switzerland as an example. Unfortunately, poorly planned separations do not lead to peace among ethnic groups. Religious separation between India and Pakistan left large heterogenous areas in India where violence has since occurred.

The United States is often believed to be an example of mixing ethnicities together, so that no cohesive ethnic groups form, thus preventing ethnic violence. However, there have been cases of ethnic violence within the U.S., including the Rodney King incident in 1991.

Using the media to change perceptions of ethnicity might lead to a change in probability of ethnic violence. The use of media that results in ethnic violence is usually a cyclical relationship; one group increases messages of group cohesion in response to a perceived threat, and a neighboring group responds with messages of their own group cohesion. Of course, this only happens when outside groups are already perceived as being potential threats. Using this logic, ethnic violence might be prevented by decreasing messages of group cohesion, while increasing messages of safety and solidarity with members of other ethnic groups.

Outside forces may also be effective in decreasing the likelihood of ethnic violence. However, not all interferences from outside forces may be helpful. If not handled delicately, the possibility might increase. Outside groups can help stabilize danger zones by imposing gentle economic sanctions, develop more representative political institutions that would allow for minority voices to be heard, and encourage the respect of ethnically diverse communities and minorities. However, if done incorrectly, outside interference can cause a nationalistic lash-back.