In the present time, people hear and watch so many instabilities and chaos in all directions of the world as the globe becomes dynamic and volatile. Things are being changed in a glimpse of an eye and no one can predict what will happen next. Such unpredictability and uncertainty become high in some parts of the world especially the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
As they are the major corridor for international trade, a junction for different continents, and a means to defend national interest, the Horn of Africa and the Red sea are treated as one of the most crucial regions in the world. A number of actors from near and far have observed every step taken in the region. Global powerhouse nations have also been involving in every issue of the region so as to get their intended national advantages.
The experiences show that the Red Sea and the Horn have been facing multiple setbacks and numerous conflicts due to their strategic and geopolitical positions. Even in the present climate, the region is experiencing challenges like conflicts, piracy, and among other things. Again, as the region is a junction for Africa, Europe and Asia, anything happens in those continents definitely harm the movement of the world as it is the route of international trade. The case of the war between Israel and Hamas could be an example.
In the modern world, as it is obvious, solving disagreements with guns has become a traditional way. Bringing issues to the table so that parties can sit together and resolve their differences is the trend that makes it moderns and educated. However, parties are still using the traditional way other than coming together for discussion.
During the second series of the Horn Dialogue which held in Addis Ababa last Friday, statements of senior diplomats and foreign relation experts were dominantly about concerns showing the rising insecurity in the Horn of Africa (HoA).
Almost all panelists and officials participated in the dialogue highlighted both internal and regional factors exacerbating the situation.
Harry Verhoeven, International Relations Scholar with Columbia University, emphasized the complex nature of insecurity in the region, attributing it to a mix of internal political conflicts and regional tensions. He noted that while the proximity between Horn of Africa countries has unifying effects, shared identities, customs, and traditions, challenges are being continued due to underutilization of the opportunities.
One common thread across the region is the deep interconnection between countries’ societal values, despite disparities in their political policies and approaches to security, he said.
The absence of formal regional integration mechanisms has been identified as a significant gap. In spite of potentials for overcoming challenges through shared history and geographical proximity, undesirable struggles are continued. Disagreements within regional countries, even over regional organizations further complicate efforts to address peace and security issues effectively, according to him.
To navigate these challenges, experts underscore the importance of revitalizing regional organizations like IGAD and limiting destabilizing external interventions. They emphasize the need for leadership that recognizes the interests and insecurities of all regional players, fostering cooperation and collective action. However, concerns persist about the impact of hegemonic geopolitics, which may hinder the military growth of other states in the region, prolonging insecurity.
Semir Yesuf (PhD), a Senior International Security Analyst, echoed concerns about competitive dynamics within the Horn of Africa, highlighting tensions fuelled by involvement from Middle Eastern, Western, and Eastern powers. The prevalence of internal conflicts in the region provides opportunities for external actors to engage in proxy warfare, further complicating efforts to achieve peace and stability, according to him.
Semir stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts through dialogue and cooperation among Horn of African countries.
The ongoing tensions within countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia need urgent internal resolution on governance crises, demilitarization of civil issues, and mitigation of power struggles.
Another foreign relation expert and senior diplomat, Ambassador John Gai of South Sudan underlined the necessity of building fraternity with regional neighbors for common development goals. He emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and collaboration.
Addressing insecurity in the Horn of Africa requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the complex interplay of internal and regional factors. Regional organizations must be empowered to facilitate dialogue and negotiations, he added.
Achieving the sought after goals, there has to be some new approaches and platforms like the horn dialogue should be entertained well so that they bring nations and stakeholders to the table for an intellectual and all rounded discussion. Discussions platforms surely bring tangible results in terms of maintaining regional peace and security along with collective economic development.
To this end, Mesganu Arga, Foreign Affairs State Minister said the Horn of Africa deserves and can bring sustainable peace, prosperity and security to the region.
While opening the Second Horn Dialogue Series, the state minister said the dialogue series is an important platform to enhance cooperation and collaboration among stakeholders as the Horn of Africa stands at a critical juncture.
“Here we have the opportunity to engage in open and intellectual discussions, dissect the regional security landscape and propose concrete strategies for collaboration,” he added.
Mesganu stressed that the Horn of Africa deserves sustainable peace, prosperity and security, adding that the dialogue is a crucial step towards achieving that vision. Nations can address the root cause of conflict and foster sustainable peace by fostering greater collaboration between them.
“We can strengthen our collective effort to counter terrorism, piracy and illicit arms threat by implementing effective border management, and maritime security protocols. We can also create a safer and more stable environment for all.”
This region, which is a strategic gateway to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, holds immense significance for peace, stability, and prosperity. However, “we cannot ignore the harsh reality of the Horn region burdened by complex security challenges, armed conflict, political instability, recurrent drought induced by climate change, piracy and proliferation of smaller arms and traffic,” he stressed.
The governments should, therefore, work together with unwavering commitment and a shared sense of purpose to build a brighter future for the Horn of Africa and in turn for the entire international community. And this dialogue is a crucial step towards achieving that vision, the state minister noted.
Institute of Foreign Affairs Executive Director, Jafar Bedru, said on his part that the Horn of Africa has recently become a critical region due to a convergence of events and circumstances.
Thus, this round of dialogue series seeks to raise awareness and influence policy directions for navigating the region’s complexities, he said, adding that open regional dialogues is very crucial for addressing current challenges and envisioning a shared future for the Horn of Africa.
“By leveraging the collective strengths, resources and aspirations of its member countries, the region can achieve security, economic prosperity and social development. This requires fostering greater cooperation, collaboration and dialogue.”
The executive director underlined that this requires fostering greater cooperation, collaboration and dialogue. According to him, the Horn Africa holds immense potential for regional integrity, integration and prosperity despite the challenges.
Panelists and participants discussed thematic issues, including changes and continuities in the regional security landscape, the role of external actors in regional security, building a stronger, integrated region for sustainable peace and opportunity.
The aim of the Second Horn Dialogue Series held in Addis Ababa is about to foster knowledge sharing, idea exchange and exploration of innovative solutions for the region’s pressing security and political challenges.
BY DANIEL ALEMAYEHU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 25 APRIL 2024
