Eritrea has announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), accusing the regional bloc of abandoning its founding principles and failing to effectively promote peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
In a statement, Eritrean authorities said IGAD no longer serves the collective interests of member states and has become ineffective in addressing regional security challenges. The decision comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between Eritrea and Ethiopia, following renewed calls from Addis Ababa for access to the Red Sea through Eritrean territory, a demand Asmara views as a direct threat to its sovereignty.
IGAD, which includes Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda, expressed regret over Eritrea’s exit. The bloc noted that Eritrea had not been actively participating in IGAD activities in recent months, limiting its engagement even before the formal withdrawal.
This is not the first time Eritrea has left the regional body. The country previously withdrew in 2007 during a prolonged border dispute with Ethiopia, accusing IGAD of bias and political interference. Eritrea rejoined the organisation in 2023 amid improving regional relations, particularly after the 2018 peace agreement with Ethiopia.
Analysts say Eritrea’s latest departure reflects deepening fractures in regional diplomacy, especially as geopolitical competition over ports, trade corridors and Red Sea access intensifies. The withdrawal also raises concerns about the future effectiveness of IGAD at a time when the Horn of Africa faces overlapping crises, including conflict, political instability and climate-related shocks.
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