Humanism & the Future of Ethiopia (Essay and Poem)
By Amara Tesfaye
For many Ethiopians, life is an ongoing struggle against poverty, inequality, political instability, and limited access to basic services like education and healthcare. I have often found myself reflecting on these challenges and wondering how my country can overcome them. In my search for an answer, I have come to believe that humanism, a philosophical and ethical stance that values human dignity, reason, and compassion holds the key to addressing the many issues Ethiopia faces today. Humanism is not just an abstract ideal but a practical framework that can help guide Ethiopia towards a more just, peaceful, and prosperous future.
Growing up in Ethiopia, I witnessed firsthand the stark contrast between the lives of the wealthy and the struggles of the poor. The economic disparity in my country is overwhelming. While some live in luxurious homes, drive expensive cars, and have access to world-class education and healthcare, millions of Ethiopians remain trapped in poverty. According to the World Bank, over 20% of the population lives below the poverty line, with many unable to access even basic necessities like clean water and sufficient food. I saw this divide clearly in my own community, where families lived in makeshift houses without reliable access to electricity or clean drinking water. In the face of such inequality, it became clear to me that humanism, with its emphasis on the value of human beings and the pursuit of well-being for all, is precisely what Ethiopia needs.
Humanism calls for a shift in priorities one that centers human welfare over profit and ensures that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably. In Ethiopia, this shift could mean the creation of policies that prioritize the basic needs of the most vulnerable in society. It is a call for empathy, solidarity, and fairness, which would direct resources towards rural areas where poverty is most rampant. A humanistic approach would ensure that everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, has access to the essentials of life: food, shelter, and healthcare. This would not only improve the standard of living for millions but also lay the foundation for a more inclusive society, where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.
Another critical issue in Ethiopia is the deep-seated ethnic divisions that have led to conflict and violence. With over 80 ethnic groups, Ethiopia is a nation of incredible diversity, but this diversity has sometimes been a source of division rather than unity. I remember hearing about the tensions between ethnic groups in various regions of the country, tensions that often escalated into violence. The most tragic recent example of this is the Tigray conflict, which began in 2020 and has led to immense suffering, displacement, and loss of life. The ethnic federalism that was meant to give various groups more autonomy has, in many cases, deepened divisions rather than fostering unity.
Humanism offers a way forward by promoting the dignity and equality of all individuals, regardless of their ethnicity. At its core, humanism calls for mutual respect and understanding between different groups, which could form the basis for lasting peace in Ethiopia. A humanistic approach to conflict resolution would not rely on power struggles or division but would emphasize dialogue, cooperation, and a shared commitment to justice. It is an approach that recognizes that the well-being of one group is tied to the well-being of all. By embracing humanism, Ethiopia could move beyond ethnic divisions and build a society where all citizens, regardless of their background, are treated with equal dignity and respect.
As I reflect on Ethiopia’s political landscape, I am reminded of the struggles for freedom and democracy that have marked the nation’s history. Ethiopia has experienced authoritarian regimes that repressed political freedoms and silenced dissent. Though the country has made strides toward democratization since the fall of the Derg regime in 1991, political repression and the suppression of civil liberties continue to be significant issues. The recent crackdowns on political opposition and the erosion of press freedoms remind me that Ethiopia’s democracy is still fragile and incomplete.
Humanism provides the ethical foundation for democracy and human rights. It calls for the recognition of the fundamental rights of all people, regardless of their political views or affiliations. A humanistic Ethiopia would be one where the government upholds the principles of free speech, freedom of assembly, and equal participation in political life. It would create a political culture that values accountability, transparency, and the protection of civil liberties. This would not only strengthen Ethiopia’s democracy but also create an environment in which citizens feel safe and empowered to voice their opinions and work together for the common good.
Furthermore, one of the areas where the need for humanism is most apparent is in Ethiopia’s education and healthcare systems. Although the country has made progress in improving access to education and healthcare, these sectors are still plagued by underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and unequal access, especially in rural areas. I have seen how children in rural schools often lack the resources they need to succeed, from textbooks to trained teachers. Similarly, many Ethiopians living outside urban centers struggle to access basic medical care, which often results in preventable deaths and suffering.
A humanistic approach to education and healthcare would prioritize the well-being of every individual, ensuring that all Ethiopians, regardless of where they live, have access to quality education and healthcare services. It would demand that the government invest in these vital sectors and make them a national priority. Access to education and healthcare is not a privilege but a basic human right, and ensuring these rights for all Ethiopians would help to unlock the nation’s full potential.
As I think about Ethiopia’s future, I am filled with hope that humanism can be the guiding force that leads us toward a brighter, more equitable society. Humanism calls us to value each individual, to promote justice, and to ensure that no one is left behind. For Ethiopia, this means creating a society where the dignity of every citizen is respected, where peace and unity are prioritized over division, and where access to education and healthcare is guaranteed for all. By embracing humanism, Ethiopia can move towards a future that is just, peaceful, and prosperous for all of its people.
Little References
1. World Bank. "Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2022: Reversals of Fortune." World Bank, 2022.
2. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). "Human Development Reports." UNDP, 2020.
3. Human Rights Watch. "Ethiopia: Events of 2023." Human Rights Watch, 2023.
4. Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. "Constitution of Ethiopia." 1995.
5. United Nations. "Human Rights Council: Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Ethiopia." United Nations, 2022.
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Humanism and the Future of Ethiopia
In Ethiopia’s heart, where the highlands rise, A future awaits, beneath vast skies. Not built on borders, nor old divides, But on the promise that humanity guides.
From Addis to the farthest plain, A people united, not in vain. In every language, in every song, Human dignity echoes strongly.
The past may whisper, the present calls, But a future of justice awaits us all. No more the weight of hunger's grip, But the feast of knowledge on every lip.
In classrooms bright, in fields of green, A new tomorrow can be seen. Where hope is planted, roots grow deep, And all who sow, together reap.
For Ethiopia, rising on wings of grace, A humanist vision takes its place. With compassion as the light we follow, A land of peace, where hearts are hollow no more.
In every village, every town, The power of unity wears no crown. It’s in the hands of each and all, To lift Ethiopia, strong and tall.
Not in the promise of wealth or fame, But in the love that knows no shame, A future bright with justice, free, A land where all can truly be.
Ethiopia, cradle of the human heart, In you, the future shall restart. With humanism as the guiding hand, Together, we’ll rise, a proud, united land.