Link to article: https://allafrica.com/stories/202404040209.html
Due to rising tensions over a port deal, the government of Somalia sent back Ethiopian Ambassador of Somalia Mohamed Ware to Addis Abeba for consultation. Simultaneously, Somalia closed Ethiopian consulate offices in Somaliland and Puntland. The start of this new low point in Somalian-Ethiopian relations dated back to the January 1st signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ethiopia and Somaliland which granted Ethiopia access to the sea for a leased military base in return for recognition of Somaliland. Somalia stated that the MoU “violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Various countries also pledged their support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia. Puntland also withdrew their recognition of Somalia’s federal government.
The new damages to the relationship between the two states does not lead to any sense of confidence in the state of the region. With all of the surrounding crises in the region, this relationship deteriorating just furthers the shambled state of Sub-Saharan Africa. When it comes to the MoU in specific, countries seem to be siding with Somalia which could shape the future standing of the memorandum. The closure of consulate offices also conveys the need to meetings to ensue shortly to repair what has been lost. Due to proximity and the potential problems facing the future of the region, the countries are going to need ties to be recovered in a quick manner.
Regarding human rights, the MoU being labeled as an attack to the sovereignty of a state and its people will shape how nearby countries and their people view each side. It will likely lead to vocal support for Somalia and a widespread call for revision on Ethiopia’s end shortly. With the common support for sovereignty and territorial respect across not just Sub-Saharan Africa, but the whole world, calls for Ethiopia to give into some future Somali requests are likely. However, there is little that outward countries can do in regards to forcing Ethiopia to make any decisions on this matter. Financial limitations are possible but unlikely. Due to the lack of impact that this matter currently has on other states, there isn’t much demand for change at the moment.