Making Citizens in Africa

This book explores the complexities of citizenship in Ethiopia, focusing on language policy, ethnic identity, and gender dynamics in political contestation.

In Making Citizens in Africa, Professor Lahra Smith delves into the intricate dynamics of contemporary Ethiopian politics, offering a comprehensive examination of how language policy, citizenship, ethnic identity, and gender intersect. This empirical study goes beyond merely outlining political institutions and their historical contexts; it emphasizes the importance of understanding citizenship as a critical factor in political contestation across Africa today. By exploring the intersection of modern and historical narratives, Smith sheds light on the evolving nature of citizenship in Ethiopia, illustrating its significance in the broader African political landscape.

Smith posits that the creation and expansion of citizenship are fundamental to the ongoing political struggles within the continent. She contends that citizenship serves as a potent analytical framework for understanding political life in contemporary Africa, particularly in light of the institutional and structural reforms that have unfolded over the past two decades. This focus on the 'right to have rights' highlights the complexities surrounding the exercise of citizenship and the implications it has for individuals and social movements.

Through her innovative approach, which combines original data on language policy with a historical lens, Making Citizens in Africa presents a fresh perspective on Ethiopian political development. By addressing the contestation over citizenship and its ties to ethnicity and gender, Smith's work contributes significantly to the discourse on citizenship in Africa, offering valuable insights into the ways rights are practiced and the implications for social cohesion and political engagement.