Formal move by Eritrea to withdraw from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on claims that the regional body has failed to ensure development, peace and stability, just two years after its return to the bloc, has sparked regrets and fears of internal conflicts that could spill to Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan.
The Horn of Africa country self-suspended its participation from IGAD for nearly two decades before formally rejoining following the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government held in June 2023.
All Member States cordially welcomed it back on that occasion, demonstrating their shared commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed collaboration. However, Eritrea has claimed that the regional body’s meetings and programs have failed to offer it “strategic benefit”.
“Throughout this period, the Secretariat has exercised patience and goodwill, while remaining open and available for constructive engagement,” IGAD said in a statement, urging Eritrea to submit “tangible proposals or engagement on specific institutional or policy reforms”.
“The Organisation has consistently remained open to dialogue through its established consultative mechanisms…. the IGAD Secretariat will continue its outreach to the Government of the State of Eritrea and encourages it to reconsider its position and to fully rejoin the Organisation in good faith, in order to advance shared objectives for peace, stability, and development across the region.”
