Ethiopian-Eritrean Conflict: Security Implications for the Horn of Africa
Abstract
This paper examines how the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea has worsened the security situation in the Horn of Africa and created fertile environments for terrorist groups in the region. The Horn of Africa is a region in which neighboring countries have long been uncomfortable with each other. Since 1960, most of the countries in the region have questioned the validity of each other's boundaries, which were established by the former colonial powers. Since its independence, Eritrea has used military force against Yemen, Djibouti, and Ethiopia following unresolved border disputes. Unfortunately, the use of border disputes as a pretext for economic and political problems is common in Eritrea. One example of this is the war that was conducted from 1998 to 2000 between Ethiopia and Eritrea that affected the security of the entire region. Based on the principle of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend," Eritrea has supported armed opposition groups in the region as an indirect continuation of its conflict with Ethiopia. The threat posed by Eritrea's sponsorship of anti-Ethiopian forces that include elements clearly linked to al-Qaeda and other jihadist movements make the campaign against terrorism in the Horn of Africa difficult. This directly affects the interests of the United States. Therefore, America should look seriously at the security implications of Eritrea's lawlessness in the region. Moreover, Eritrea's isolation from regional and international organizations is moving the country towards becoming a militarized regime. The United Nations, African Union, Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD), and the United States should help Eritrea solve its problems diplomatically. From the Ethiopian side, Ethiopia should be encouraged to hold bilateral talks with Eritrea instead of making the situation more complex. This includes solving its border disputes through face-to-face talks.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA562550
Entities
People
- Temesgen A. Gidey
Organizations
- United States Army War College