Social Cohesion Between Internally Displaced People and Host Communities in Somali Region of Ethiopia: The Case of Qolaji Camp

Abstract

In the Qoloji settlement in the Somali region of Ethiopia, this study examines the social cohesion between the host community and internally displaced people (IDPs). The study uses a mixed-methods descriptive approach that includes two focus groups, nine interviews, and a survey with 156 respondents. Three factors are used to quantify social cohesion: cooperation, feeling of identity, and trust. With mean scores of 4.1 for cooperation and trust and 4.3 for sense of belonging, the results show strong levels of social cohesion. Qualitative data emphasizes how crucial shared cultural components—like language, familial ties, and religious convictions—are to building a sense of trust and community. Age, educational attainment, and aid dependency are found to be important determinants of social cohesion by multiple linear regression analysis. There is a negative correlation between households with members who lack formal education and those who are over 60 and between the ages of 39 and 49. Social cohesion is adversely affected by aid dependency, indicating that certain community members may feel excluded. For males, there is a marginally significant negative correlation between gender and social cohesion. Despite issues with aid distribution and accusations of partiality, the study highlights the importance of cultural affinities, reciprocal assistance, and resource sharing in fostering social cohesion between IDPs and host communities. The results inform strategies for promoting peaceful cohabitation and integration and advance our understanding of the factors that influence social cohesion in displacement environments.