Tribalism

Nature

Tribalism concerns groups of people having a common race, character, occupation, or interest. Status and ethnic or linguistic identity become linked (for example in the UK when it used to be accepted that a person with a certain accent would automatically be labelled "lower class") thus possibly leading to discrimination. Tribalism could also possibly lead to policies of ethnic chauvinism that grant advantages and privileges to an ethnic group as a whole or to certain of its members.

Background

Tribalism emerged as a recognized global issue in the 20th century, as decolonization and nation-building exposed deep-rooted group loyalties that often undermined social cohesion. Scholars and policymakers began to document how tribal allegiances fueled conflict, hindered governance, and complicated humanitarian efforts, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Increasingly, the phenomenon has been observed in modern political polarization worldwide, prompting renewed analysis of its persistent and evolving impact.

Incidence

Tribalism continues to manifest globally, affecting political stability, social cohesion, and economic development in diverse regions. Its incidence is particularly acute in areas where ethnic or clan identities are strongly linked to access to resources, governance, and security. Tribal allegiances have contributed to ongoing conflicts, discrimination, and exclusion, with significant impacts observed in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. The persistence of tribalism undermines national unity and complicates efforts toward inclusive governance and peacebuilding.
In 2023, tribal violence erupted in the Blue Nile region of Sudan, resulting in hundreds of deaths and the displacement of thousands. Clashes between the Hausa and Berta communities were fueled by disputes over land and political representation, highlighting the enduring influence of tribal divisions on local and national stability.

Claim

Tribalism is one manifestation of a force of collective assertion, aggression and defence that is also inspired by race, religion, communal identity, a communal commitment exalted in some nations as patriotism. It is the primal urge to belong to one group and hate the rest.

The most common face of tribalism is uncouth and uncivilized: from warring tribes in Africa to hooded Klan members in the USA, from fanatics in the Indian subcontinent to mass murderers in Bosnia, from jeering skinheads in Germany to the desecrators of Jewish graves in France. Designer tribalism is understated. It lies unexpectedly beneath the surface of societies with high standards of living and generally long exposure to democratic practices. It begins to reveal itself when official responses to fascist violence exhibit an alarming tepidity; when the violence is seen as basically a law-and-order problem and not an act of terrorism; and when members of the racist fringe begin to move into the political mainstream.

Counter-claim

A tribe is a family which has grown as a result of procreation. It is a big family; it provides its members with material benefits and social advantages the family provides for its members. It is a natural social umbrella for social security, bringing up children and providing a sense of identity.