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Eritrea Withdraws from IGAD, Citing Long-Standing Concerns Over Mandate and Governance
Eritrea has officially notified the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) of its decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, marking a significant shift in the Horn of Africa’s diplomatic landscape. The announcement was delivered through a statement issued on Friday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Asmara.
According to the statement, Eritrea’s withdrawal is rooted in what it describes as a prolonged pattern of institutional shortcomings and politicization within IGAD. Asmara recalled that it played “a pivotal role” in revitalizing the organization in 1993 and had supported efforts to strengthen regional cooperation on peace, stability, and economic integration.
However, the government asserts that IGAD began deviating from these objectives as early as 2005, alleging that the bloc “failed to meet the aspirations of the peoples of the region” and instead became “a tool against targeted Member States; particularly Eritrea.” These grievances led Eritrea to suspend its membership in 2007.
Asmara rejoined IGAD in 2023, expressing hope at the time that the institution would pursue reforms and “rectify its past records.” The ministry now says those expectations were unmet. It accuses IGAD of reneging on its statutory responsibilities and undermining its own relevance and mandate.
“In the event, Eritrea finds itself compelled to withdraw its membership from an organization that has forfeited its legal mandate and authority; offering no discernible strategic benefit,” the statement said.
As of publication, IGAD has not issued any public response to Eritrea’s decision.
The withdrawal introduces new uncertainty into regional diplomatic dynamics at a time when IGAD is expected to play a key role in addressing conflicts, humanitarian pressures, and economic cooperation across the Horn of Africa.
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