Source: https://allafrica.com/stories/202401110271.html
In Mogadishu, a large crowd voiced their opposition to the sea access agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. Protesters, joined by government figures, denounced the deal, accusing Ethiopia of interference and attempting to divide Somalia. While there was no violence, citizens of Somalia expressed their concern for the new deal, with signs like “Somali belong to Somalia” and “our seas are not for sale”. These protests and this deal underscored concerns about sovereignty, prompting regional body Igad to express unease over potential stability issues. Despite peaceful demonstrations, there’s a call for international intervention against perceived Ethiopian aggression, which can hopefully resolve the dispute.
I believe that despite the valid concerns over sovereignty, the sea access deal could lead to increased cooperation, which can be useful for enhancing trade and economic growth. Geopolitically, this situation highlights intricate regional dynamics which Africans have been struggling with for years now, with Somalians wary of external interference and a desire sovereignty. Furthermore, I think that these tensions emphasize the necessity for diplomatic solutions and international involvement to ensure stability in East Africa, as Somaliland has been a very controversial part of the state for several decades now. This deal did not help the already chaotic tensions between the two states, and hopefully diplomatic solutions can be used to resolve this issue.
This article connects with our recent discussion on geopolitics, but more specifically how geopolitics can affect a states motives. National interests, borders, and regional dynamics are evident in Ethiopia and Somalia’s relationship, especially for the geopolitics of Somaliland, a large part of Somalia and also a potential area of interest for Ethiopia’s desire to have access to the sea. It is clear that as the two East African states continue to make deals over this region, international relations can be greatly affected, potentially influencing future economic and political collaborations which could shape their futures.