What is ethnic based federalism?

Ethnic-based federalism is a political system where the governance structure is organized along ethnic lines, granting autonomy to different ethnic groups within a country. This approach aims to address the unique cultural, linguistic, and political needs of various ethnic communities, often by providing them with self-governing powers and representation in a federal system. While it can promote inclusivity and reduce ethnic tensions, it may also lead to fragmentation and conflict if not managed carefully. Examples can be found in countries like Ethiopia and Nigeria, where federalism is explicitly designed to accommodate diverse ethnic identities.