Military Personnel as a Percentage of Population in Ethiopia, 1987-2016

Ethiopia's military personnel as a percentage of the population showed notable shifts between 1987 and 2016, reflecting periods of conflict and restructuring. In 1987, the rate stood at 0.6% but declined to 0.5% by 1988, dropping further to 0.2% by 1991. This decrease aligns with political changes following the end of the Derg regime. Stability ensued in the 1990s, with a slight increase to 0.5% in 1999 during the Ethiopia-Eritrea conflict, peaking at 0.6% in 2000. Post-conflict, the percentage settled to a long-term low of 0.2%, gradually tapering to 0.1% by 2013-2016. Ethiopia’s pattern reflects a shift from military-centered governance toward focusing on stability and development, maintaining minimal defense levels amid a steady population growth trajectory.