This chapter explores the intricate root causes underpinning the protracted conflict in Côte d’Ivoire, with a particular focus on socio-economic disparities, political marginalisation, ethnic tensions, and migration policies. Drawing from qualitative data, including interviews and focus group discussions, it elucidates how historical patterns of inequality and governance failures fostered grievances that culminated in violent confrontations, notably the civil wars. Central to the analysis is the recognition of horizontal inequalities, disparities not only along ethnic lines but also geographically, especially between the north and the south regions. These inequalities manifested through unequal access to education, development resources, political power, and land rights, creating a fertile ground for discontent and mobilisation against marginalised groups. The political landscape, characterised by unequal power sharing and discriminatory policies, further exacerbated these divisions. The analysis also calls attention to the role of immigration and demographic shifts, where non-bonafide land rights and debates over citizenship heightened tensions between indigenous Ivoirians and migrants, particularly from neighbouring West African countries. Furthermore, the chapter assesses the impact of economic fragility; although unemployment rates have fluctuated, structural economic improvements, particularly in the cocoa and coffee sectors, have contributed to periods of relative stability.