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Document Details :

Title: The Spiritual Legacy of the Ethio-Eritrean Conflict
Author(s): PERSOON, Joachim G.
Journal: Journal of Eastern Christian Studies
Volume: 57    Issue: 3-4   Date: 2005   
Pages: 291-315
DOI: 10.2143/JECS.57.3.2005904

Abstract :
The Ethio-Eritrean conflict is normally not associated with religion, yet religion played an important role from the beginning. It was not a conflict between religious groups, but religious elements were part of a wider constellation of factors that interacted. Political events also had a direct impact on internal policies towards religion, especially in Eritrea after the latest border conflict. This contributed to the creation of the present crisis, especially with regard to the Evangelical-Pentecostal churches. In addition, the religious element is very influential in the diaspora. The present governments of Ethiopia and Eritrea share a common origin as resistance movements. Originally they had the same or a similar ideology, but they developed in very different directions after the independence of Eritrea. This article seeks to elucidate how religious factors play an important role at all levels of the public life.