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Syndemic displacement: unpacking climate, conflict, and development crises in Ethiopia
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DOI：10.1080/17565529.2026.2665380.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
Ethiopia's internal displacement crisis reflects a syndemic of ethnicised conflict, climate insecurity, extractive development, and institutional fragmentation trapping populations in forced migration. Drawing on a systematic review of 69 peer-reviewed and grey literature sources (2018–2024), we apply the Syndemic Structural Vulnerability Framework, integrating syndemic theory, political ecology, and intersectional feminist analysis to examine displacement as a structurally embedded process shaped by power, inequity, and historical marginalization. Conflict (cited in 68% of studies) emerges as the primary driver, fueled by ethnic tensions, resource competition, and land dispossession. Climate shocks (42%) and development-induced displacement (29%) intensify these dynamics, creating a “Development Paradox” where resilience and growth interventions exacerbate displacement and inequality. Outcomes are shaped by intersecting gender, ethnic, class, and geographic vulnerabilities, disproportionately impacting women and children, yet responses frequently overlook these disparities. Institutional fragmentation and structural violence further perpetuate vulnerability by treating drivers in isolation. Mapping cascading risks and feedback loops, this study reframes displacement as a product of entrenched political-economic structures rather than isolated shocks. We conclude that effective responses require integrated, intersectional, and rights-based governance targeting root causes over symptoms.
Keywords:
Displacement
Ethiopia
conflict
climate
development paradox
cascading risks
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