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Description:
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This research explains the formation of territorial autonomy regimes ,
arrangements enabling ethnic groups to express their distinct identity . The origins of
territorial autonomy arrangements is an important topic due to the great potential of such
institutions to prevent ethnic strife or reduce ongoing conflict . While the literature has
explored the consequences of autonomy regimes , its contribution to our understanding of
the origins of territorial autonomy is limited . In answering why territorial autonomy
regimes are adopted , I develop a theory that focuses on the bargaining strategies of
ethnic groups . Specifically , I posit that nonviolent bargaining strategies adopted by
ethnic groups influence national leaders’ decision -making processes . In this dissertation ,
I also address the question of why ethnic groups employ peaceful , as opposed to violent ,
tactics . Hypotheses derived from this theorization are tested using 197 ethnic groups in
95 states . In the empirical analysis I use data from 1945 to 2000 and employ the duration
model and the modified Heckman selection model as my primary statistical methods . To
trace the process of territorial autonomy formation I use a case study conducted in the Republic of Tatarstan in the Russian Federation . The results suggest that while groups
with access to easily extractable resources choose to employ violent strategies , ethnic
collectivities who use peaceful protest tactics are in fact more successful in obtaining
territorial autonomy arrangements from central governments . |