Ethiopia and Eritrea’s historical relations, marked by conflict, saw a turning point in 2018 with a peace agreement. This led to significant advancements in cooperation, including border reopening and enhanced diplomatic ties. However, deep-rooted issues stemming from colonial legacies and diverging narratives persist. Sustainable peace requires recognition of these complexities and collaboration among leaders, civil societies, and international stakeholders to avoid future conflicts.
Ethiopia and Eritrea share a historically intricate relationship, marred by conflict yet marked by recent efforts towards collaboration. Their tumultuous past includes the Eritrean War of Independence (1961–1991) and the Eritrean-Ethiopian War (1998–2000). However, a significant turning point occurred in 2018 with the signing of a peace agreement, which officially ended the prolonged impasse known as “no peace, no war,” heralding a new era initiated by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s reforms.
Following the peace agreement, several advancements occurred, such as border reopening, resumed flights, and restored diplomatic relations, significantly enhancing bilateral ties. Notably, families divided by the border were reunited, fostering feelings of reconciliation among the populace. This article provides an insightful analysis of current factors influencing Ethiopian-Eritrean relations, examining historical contexts and competing political narratives that affect contemporary dynamics.
The two nations face distinct factors influencing their relations. Historical colonial legacies have hindered cooperation through ingrained territorial and social separations. Moreover, persistent negative narratives shape public sentiment and contribute to ongoing tensions, resulting in detrimental polarizations that affect both countries.
During Emperor Haile Selassie’s reign, Eritrea’s annexation intensified existing conflict, a legacy carried forth by subsequent regimes, particularly the Derg, which faced intensified insurgent resistance. After Eritrea’s independence, the relationship became marred by fundamental distrust between the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front (EPLF) and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), obstructing effective collaboration. The rushed departure from Ethiopia’s governance led to unresolved issues, including economic and border disputes that unfolded into warfare.
The 2018 peace agreement illuminated an evolution in the political landscape, leading to critical alleviations of the isolation Eritrea faced. Not only did it promote border reopening and transportation renewal, but it also enabled Eritrea to re-engage politically on regional and international levels. Ethiopia benefited immensely, particularly through the stabilization of its northern borders and the cessation of Eritrean support for armed opposition groups. This marked a foundational moment for socio-economic improvements.
The Pretoria Peace Agreement, established on November 3, 2022, between Ethiopian authorities and the TPLF, underscored a concerted effort towards peace, offering humanitarian relief and fostering broader stability across the region. However, President Isaias Afwerki’s government expressed discontent regarding the political provisions of this agreement, which mainly centered on Ethiopia’s internal landscape.
Ethiopia’s quest for Red Sea access continues to be a contentious point in relations, as it remains landlocked since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. Ethiopia asserts historical and strategic claims for access to the Red Sea, supported by various geopolitical considerations. Despite Eritrea’s objections, discussions oriented toward cooperation rather than confrontational politics are deemed essential for sustaining peace.
For a durable peace, it is vital to acknowledge the historical and contemporary factors undermining Ethiopian-Eritrean relations. The population should advocate for cooperation, learning from the legacy of conflict. Both nations have endured devastating wars with scant positive outcomes, and a shift towards cooperative dialogue must take precedence to avert the specter of future wars that endanger stability.
International organizations such as the African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and United Nations should facilitate healing processes, ensuring their functions proceed independently of external power influences. Finally, thorough scholarly research is essential to foster sustainable peace and cooperation in the region, informing policy approaches that benefit both Ethiopian and Eritrean citizens alike.
In summary, the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea is defined by a complex history, a recent peace agreement, and ongoing challenges. Stakeholders from both nations must recognize the long-standing impacts of colonial legacies and work towards reconciliation. Constructive dialogue and cooperation are crucial for a peaceful future, while international actors and scholars must support efforts towards sustainable peace. Fostering positive relations holds the potential for mutual prosperity in the Horn of Africa, preventing the recurrence of historical conflicts.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
