How does the security dilemma contribute to ethnic conflict?

In the context of political science, the security dilemma contributes to ethnic conflict by creating a cycle of mutual suspicion and defensive mobilization within a state.1

When ethnic groups perceive a threat to their security—often exacerbated by weak or ineffective state institutions—they may begin to arm themselves or mobilize militarily to ensure their protection. Because there is no central authority capable of guaranteeing the safety of all groups, these defensive measures are interpreted by other ethnic groups as offensive threats.12

In response, these other groups increase their own military capabilities to reestablish a balance of power or to preemptively defend against a potential attack. This process creates an internal security spiral where the efforts of one group to provide for its own security necessarily decrease the security of others, leading to further armament and, ultimately, a heightened risk of violent conflict. This dynamic often results in massive human-rights violations and can destabilize entire regions.21